Area profile · Rest of NSW
Coffs Harbour - South has an estimated 11,495 residents, up 1.7% since the 2021 Census, with 11 projects tracked in Coffs Harbour - South.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Coffs Harbour - South Statistical Area (Lv2) sits 314 kilometres south of the Brisbane CBD. As of Aug 2026, AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 11,495, compared with the 11,305 people recorded at the 2021 Census. That represents minimal change, based on AreaSearch's assessment of the latest ERP (Estimated Resident Population) figure from the ABS and new addresses added since the Census. The area has an above-average renting population, a strong apartment presence, a notable healthcare employment base and elevated hospitality employment, alongside a strong offering of local services.
Residents include a high proportion of older people, largely living in lone person households, and income levels sit in the lower quartile. Sales volumes are significantly above average relative to population. The location is known for stunning natural landscapes, including pristine beaches, lush rainforests and a picturesque marina, and its relaxed atmosphere suits leisurely beach walks, water adventures and a laid-back lifestyle.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Coffs Harbour - South Statistical Area (Lv2) sits 314 kilometres south of the Brisbane CBD. As of Aug 2026, AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 11,495, compared with the 11,305 people recorded at the 2021 Census. That represents minimal change, based on AreaSearch's assessment of the latest ERP (Estimated Resident Population) figure from the ABS and new addresses added since the Census. The area has an above-average renting population, a strong apartment presence, a notable healthcare employment base and elevated hospitality employment, alongside a strong offering of local services.
Residents include a high proportion of older people, largely living in lone person households, and income levels sit in the lower quartile. Sales volumes are significantly above average relative to population. The location is known for stunning natural landscapes, including pristine beaches, lush rainforests and a picturesque marina, and its relaxed atmosphere suits leisurely beach walks, water adventures and a laid-back lifestyle.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 8,534 in 2001 and 11,466 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 11,495 (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, 12.5%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 27.5%.
Coffs Harbour - South ranks in the 82nd percentile nationally for amenities and the 79th 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 Coffs Harbour - South is $594 a week, up 4.5% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 2% above Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.9%.
2% above Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $424 in 2017, $666 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $306 in 2017, $486 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 408/15 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | $820,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 8 Murphy Crescent, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | $710,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 35 Reid Drive, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | $270,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 15 Reid Drive, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | $1,300,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 3 Endeavour Drive, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | $805,000 | 14 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 1/32 Moore Street, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | $685,000 | 14 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 56 Combine Street, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | $840,000 | 11 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 20 Cornish Street, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | $798,000 | 11 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 6/78 Victoria Street, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | $790,000 | 3 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 5 Victoria Street, Coffs Harbour NSW 2450 | $1,050,000 | 2 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 42 residential sales recorded since 23 Jun 2026 (the latest settled 1 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 42, houses and units together, was $840,000 (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 | $594 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +4.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.9% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $862k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $650k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $840,000 | Median of the 42 most recent residential sales, settled 23 Jun 2026 to 1 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $666 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +4.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $486 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +8.7% | 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 | 3.8% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Coffs Harbour | $614 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Coffs Harbour, over 12 months | +3.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Coffs Harbour - Grafton | $583 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Coffs Harbour - Grafton, over 12 months | +4.3% | 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 196 tracked applications: 76 approved, 48 under assessment, 72 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Coffs Harbour - South, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 11 projects in Coffs Harbour - South (4 under construction) and 47 more in the surrounding area.
Elements at Coffs is a quality residential land release estate located just off Stadium Drive on the eastern side of the Pacific Highway in Coffs Harbour. Positioned halfway between Coffs Harbour and Sawtell, it offers generous reserves and open spaces.
A $29 million capital investment to modernise facilities and expand vocational training capacity at the Coffs Harbour Education Campus. The upgrade delivers state-of-the-art trade workshops, contemporary laboratories, and technology-enabled learning spaces to support regional skills demand.
A long-term residential release area featuring The Lakes Estate and surrounding developments, with infrastructure supporting up to 361 dwellings. The development includes neighbourhood parks, walking trails, stormwater detention systems, collector roads with cycleways, koala habitat management zones, and community facilities.
Coffs Harbour Airport Enterprise Park is a commercial and industrial employment precinct within Coffs Harbour Airport. The first phase was completed in early 2021, delivering 10 serviced lots and road, drainage and services works.
State Significant Development (SSD-83294209) by Homes NSW for a four to five-storey residential flat building containing 60 high-quality social and affordable housing units.
A 35-apartment high-end development featuring luxury finishes, state-of-the-art appliances, and lush communal courtyard. Located on the corner of Collingwood and Edgar Streets, within walking distance from the beach, local schools, cafes and shops. Over 90% sold, completion late 2025.
A 13-storey mixed-use development featuring 95 apartments and ground-floor retail spaces. Located in Coffs Harbour CBD with contemporary design reflecting the coastal environment. Includes three floors of car parking and 735 square metres of retail opportunities. Officially opened June 2025.
Stage 2 redevelopment including new emergency department, intensive care unit, coronary care unit, medical imaging, pathology, pharmacy, 102 inpatient beds across four wards, ambulatory care centre, allied health services, expanded mental health unit, and multi-storey car park.
A $2.27 billion, 14-kilometre four-lane divided bypass of Coffs Harbour on the Pacific Highway, jointly funded by the Australian Government ($1.76 billion) and the NSW Government ($440 million) and delivered by Transport for NSW.
A $12 million Health Sciences Building featuring advanced laboratories and teaching spaces for nursing, midwifery, occupational therapy, and sport exercise science. Opened in 2019 as part of the university's Coffs Harbour campus expansion.
A $12.5 million expansion of the regional sports hub including additional playing fields, amenities, and support facilities. Enhances the capacity for regional sporting events and competitions.
Luxury retirement living and residential aged care village at Park Beach, Coffs Harbour. The project includes 185 architecturally designed independent living apartments and townhouses and 120 residential aged care beds, with resort-style facilities including a community hub, swimming pool, cafe, Bombora Bar, gardens, recreation facilities and a secure gated…
Images marked AI impression are illustrative only and not photographs of the project; follow the project links for actual imagery. Original imagery? Contact us.
Estimated completion year of the 21 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 7, 2027 7, 2028 1, 2029 0, 2030 3, 2031 1, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 1. 19 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 196 substantial development applications lodged in and around Coffs Harbour - South over the past 5 years, 104 in the last 12 months; 48 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 5, 2022 34, 2023 12, 2024 22, 2025 20, 2026 (to Oct) 103.
Key application 15-21 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour Retail | $44m | 95 dwellings | 13 storeys Approved
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 196 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 104 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 7.6 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 78th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 86 | ABS building approvals | 75th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 76 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 48 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 include: Elements at Coffs (Construction); TAFE NSW Coffs Harbour Campus Upgrade (Construction); Coffs Harbour Affordable Housing (Approved); North Boambee Valley (East) Release Area (Construction); and Coffs Harbour Airport Enterprise Park (Under Assessment). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Health & Medical, and Education & Training, among others.
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On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is slightly higher than average within Coffs Harbour - South when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 area has seen 162 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Coffs Harbour - South SA2's current population of 11,495 has been supported by 86 approvals on average over recent years.
The Coffs Harbour - South SA2 has seen 7.6 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 142 people in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Coffs Harbour - South SA2's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 86, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 has grown by approximately 68 people, while 430 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.2 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 Coffs Harbour - South 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 | 11,495 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +1.7% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 341 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 38th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 11,305 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 190 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 33.70 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 was estimated to be approximately 11,495 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 11,468 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The coffs harbour - south sa2 has added approximately 190 people and shown a 1.68% increase from the 11,305 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 is estimated at 341 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.9% per annum.
Population growth in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (97.3%), Interstate migration (2.7%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 97.3% of overall population gains.
Coffs Harbour - South 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 | 78th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 23.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 16.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 24.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 48.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 45 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.7% | 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 | 12.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 11.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 10.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 9.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 at 44 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 45 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 44 years as at August 2026, Coffs Harbour - South 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 Coffs Harbour - South SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 12.5% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 10.8% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 is broadly in line with Regional NSW.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 16.1% of the population in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 23.7% of the population in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 83% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $51,164 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 19th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $63,655 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,219 | 2021 Census, weekly | 14th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $648 | 2021 Census, weekly | 19th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 12.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,568 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 33.6% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 is approximately $54,428. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $51,164.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 is approximately $67,716. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $63,655.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 is approximately $54,428 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $51,164 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 is approximately $67,716 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $63,655 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Coffs Harbour - South SA2's households (~27.5% / 1,183 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 27.5% 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 Coffs Harbour - South SA2 is $1,219/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 is $1,568/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 is $648/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Coffs Harbour - South SA2's median income among taxpayers is $51,164, with an average of $63,655. This is lower than average on a national basis, and compares to Regional NSW's median of $55,733 and average of $69,112. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $54,428 (median) and $67,716 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 is $4,218 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The coffs harbour - south sa2's disposable income is $4,218 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The labour market performance in Coffs Harbour - South lags significantly behind most other regions nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 6.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 53.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 4,695 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 16,645 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 5,005 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 has approximately 4,695 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 6.2%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 stands at 6.2%, which is 2.1 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 Coffs Harbour - South SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (22.9% of employment), retail trade (12.1%), and accommodation & food (10.8%). Other significant employers include construction and education & training.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. 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 Coffs Harbour - South SA2 is 53.1%, 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 coffs harbour - south sa2 shows notable specialisation in health care & social assistance, which employs 22.9% of the local workforce compared to 16.9% across Regional NSW. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The coffs harbour - south 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 experienced 7.7% growth, ranking 9th out of 37 regions nationally.
Coffs Harbour - South shows below-average educational performance compared to national benchmarks, though pockets of achievement exist.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 15.1% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.8% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 21.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 28.8% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.6% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 39.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 31.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 4.3% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 10.4% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 8.1% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
21.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
39.3% of people aged 15 and over in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The coffs harbour - south sa2 ranks in the 42th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 are: Certificate (28.8%), Bachelor Degree (15.1%), Advanced Diploma (10.6%).
31.5% of the population in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 10.4% in primary school, 8.1% in secondary school, 4.3% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 is 985, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 11 schools within the Coffs Harbour - South SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 5,034 students.
The coffs harbour - south sa2 includes 5 primary schools, 5 secondary schools, 1 combined school.
Coffs Harbour - South features high concentrations of lone person households and single parent families but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.3 people | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 34.6% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 20.6% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 26.7% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 13.2% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.9% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 4,301 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 4,373 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 61.4% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.8 per family | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 had 4,301 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 1.7% to an estimated 4,373 households today.
The average household size in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 is 2.3 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 61.4% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (34.6%), group households (3.9%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,641 family households, couples with children account for 20.6% of all households, couples without children at home 26.7%, and single parent families 13.2%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 34.6% (versus 27.9% in Regional NSW). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 61.4% 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 Coffs Harbour - South SA2 have an average of 1.8 children, matching the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 39.6% of the adult population are currently married, while 35.3% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 34.6% of all households in the Coffs Harbour - South 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 3.9% of households, slightly above the Regional NSW average of 3.3%.
In terms of cultural diversity, Coffs Harbour - South records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 21.2% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 13.9% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 86.1% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 81.9% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 78.8% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 4.0% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
Coffs Harbour - South was found to be above average in terms of cultural diversity, with 21.2% of its population born overseas and 13.9% speaking a language other than English at home.
The main religion in Coffs Harbour - South was found to be Christianity, which makes up 51.5% of people in Coffs Harbour - South. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Other, which comprises 3.8% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Coffs Harbour - South are English, comprising 29.3% of the population, Australian, comprising 27.3% of the population, and Other, comprising 10.2% of the population, which is substantially higher than Regional NSW's 4.8%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Australian Aboriginal is notably overrepresented at 4.0% of Coffs Harbour - South (vs 4.6% across Regional NSW), French at 0.5% (vs 0.4%) and Scottish at 7.8% (vs 8.0%).
21.2% of the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
13.9% of the population in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
4.0% of the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
81.9% of the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Coffs Harbour - South displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 42.9% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 34.2% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 56.6% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,733 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 22.8% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 15.7% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $360 | 2021 Census, weekly | 46th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 29.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 95th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 32.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 95th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Coffs Harbour - South SA2, 34.2% of homes are owned outright, 22.8% are owned with a mortgage, and 42.9% are rented.
According to the latest data, 56.6% of dwellings in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 are houses.
In the Coffs Harbour - South SA2, 27.5% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 15.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 stands at 34.2%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 is $1,733, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 is $1,064, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Coffs Harbour - South SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 32.8% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 29.5% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 32.8% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 29.5% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 consists of 56.6% detached houses, 15.7% semi-detached dwellings, 27.5% apartments, and 0.3% other dwelling types.
Housing in Coffs Harbour - South consumes approximately 20.2% of median household income ($5,278 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Coffs Harbour - South show attached dwellings contributing 73% of approvals compared to 43% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 27% of applications versus 57% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Health performance in Coffs Harbour - South 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 | 49.3% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 24th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 61.9% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 9.5% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 72.7% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
Around 49.3% of people in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Coffs Harbour - South SA2, 9.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
7.2% of people in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.2% of the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.8% of people in the Coffs Harbour - South SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Coffs Harbour - South SA2, 49.3% 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 | 58 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 58th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 113 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 77th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 2,170 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 53rd percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 102 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 140 | 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 | 11.0% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 113 public transport stops within the Coffs Harbour - South SA2.
The Coffs Harbour - South SA2 has 2,170 weekly trips across 140 routes, averaging 310 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 212 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 437 m away and the nearest school 672 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 113 stops nearby, 2,170 weekly trips, access rating 58 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 82 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 437 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 672 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 747 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 909 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest fitness centre | 925 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 1.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 12 long day care centres with 744 places in Coffs Harbour - South, about 0.8 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 Coffs Harbour - South 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 Coffs Harbour - South.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is slightly higher than average within Coffs Harbour - South when compared nationally.
Coffs Harbour - South has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 50% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Coffs Harbour - South's established property market has recorded 325 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 88% residential, 9% commercial and 4% vacant land transactions.
Population growth drivers in Coffs Harbour - South are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Coffs Harbour - South hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
Income figures position the area below 83% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
The labour market performance in Coffs Harbour - South lags significantly behind most other regions nationally.
Coffs Harbour - South shows below-average educational performance compared to national benchmarks, though pockets of achievement exist.
Coffs Harbour - South features high concentrations of lone person households and single parent families but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
In terms of cultural diversity, Coffs Harbour - South records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Coffs Harbour - South displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
Health performance in Coffs Harbour - South 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.
Coffs Harbour - South has an estimated 11,495 residents, up 1.7% since the 2021 Census, with 11 projects tracked in Coffs Harbour - South.
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 Coffs Harbour - South.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Oct 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Aug 2026. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (104021085). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Coffs Harbour - South 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 Coffs Harbour - South 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.
