Area profile · Rest of NSW
Coonabarabran has an estimated 7,956 residents, up 0.4% since the 2021 Census, with 96 projects tracked in the area around Coonabarabran.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Coonabarabran Statistical Area (Lv2) lies 324 kilometres north-northwest of the Sydney CBD. As of Aug 2026, AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 7,956, a figure that compares with 7,921 people recorded in the 2021 Census and indicates minimal change. This estimate draws on the latest ABS ERP figure, where ERP refers to Estimated Resident Population, along with validated new addresses added since the Census. The area's market is marked by strong outright home ownership, affordable housing options and a detached housing base, alongside above-average children per family and a notable agricultural employment base. Its population also includes an elevated proportion of residents aged 85 and over.
Residents are notable for a high share of mature and retirement-age Australians, many living in lone person households. The area typically has lower education levels and lower-quartile income levels, and population growth has been limited.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Coonabarabran Statistical Area (Lv2) lies 324 kilometres north-northwest of the Sydney CBD. As of Aug 2026, AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 7,956, a figure that compares with 7,921 people recorded in the 2021 Census and indicates minimal change. This estimate draws on the latest ABS ERP figure, where ERP refers to Estimated Resident Population, along with validated new addresses added since the Census. The area's market is marked by strong outright home ownership, affordable housing options and a detached housing base, alongside above-average children per family and a notable agricultural employment base. Its population also includes an elevated proportion of residents aged 85 and over.
Residents are notable for a high share of mature and retirement-age Australians, many living in lone person households. The area typically has lower education levels and lower-quartile income levels, and population growth has been limited.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 9,110 in 2001 and 7,948 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 7,956 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 55 to 64, 15%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $400 - 799, 28.6%.
Coonabarabran ranks in the 56th percentile nationally for sales activity and the 48th for employment drivers.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Coonabarabran is $375 a week, up 16.8% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 36% below Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 5.7%.
36% below Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
Yield is indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools.
| Address | Sale price | Settled | Address type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 112 Wentworth Avenue, Coolah NSW 2843 | $400,000 | 26 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 2 Biamble Street, Merrygoen NSW 2831 | $120,000 | 23 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 572 Box Ridge Road, Binnaway NSW 2395 | $342,000 | 8 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 1 Dalgarno Street, Coonabarabran NSW 2357 | $420,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 4 Carlo Street, Coonabarabran NSW 2357 | $455,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 22 Oban Street, Coolah NSW 2843 | $290,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 63 Stoney Point Road, Coonabarabran NSW 2357 | $135,000 | 18 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 77 Timor Road, Coonabarabran NSW 2357 | $565,000 | 17 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 59 Bandulla Street, Mendooran NSW 2842 | $210,000 | 14 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 4 King Street, Coonabarabran NSW 2357 | $340,000 | 11 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 38 residential sales recorded since 28 May 2026 (the latest settled 26 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 38, houses and units together, was $335,000 (a different set from the medians above). Source: NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch, to October 2026. Commercial, vacant land and nominal sales are left out. Unit means the address has a unit number; a street address has none.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $375 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +16.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 5.7% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $375k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median price, latest residential sales | $335,000 | Median of the 38 most recent residential sales, settled 28 May 2026 to 26 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent, Dubbo | $513 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Far West and Orana | $462 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional NSW | $582 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, NSW | $727 a week | 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 85 tracked applications: 24 approved, 14 under assessment, 47 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 96 projects in and around Coonabarabran, 22 of them under construction.
Approximately 900-megawatt wind project with up to 131 wind turbines and a 320MW/640MWh battery. Approved June 2025 by NSW IPC. Will power approximately 500,000 average Australian homes. Expected to create around 500 jobs during peak construction. Includes a proposed temporary workforce accommodation facility.
Provides improved access to health and aged care services in rural and remote communities. Part of the NSW Government's $300 million Multipurpose Service (MPS) Program.
Up to 185 turbines, 1,332 MW capacity. Will reduce carbon footprint by approximately 2.5 million tonnes and supply power for up to 570,000 dwellings. Modification for taller turbines approved October 2024. Federal approval March 2025.
Upgrades to a six-kilometre stretch of the Oxley Highway at Goolhi, including widening the road, widening nine culverts for improved drainage, installing safety barriers, and resealing the section of road to provide smoother and safer journeys.
The Narromine to Narrabri section is Inland Rail's longest segment, comprising 306km of new single-track greenfield rail corridor in north-western NSW. It will connect the completed Parkes to Narromine section with the operational Narrabri to North Star section.
Development of a 55 megawatt solar farm with energy storage and associated infrastructure. The project will contribute to the State and Commonwealth Government's renewable energy and emissions reduction targets and is predicted to generate around 100 direct jobs during construction.
A $3.4 million project to upgrade the Dunedoo Sewage Treatment Plant and a $1.2 million investment to improve the town's drinking water infrastructure. These upgrades will ensure the town has modern, reliable, and environmentally safe water and wastewater services.
A 700-megawatt (MW) solar farm and a centralised 400-MW / 800-megawatt hour Battery Energy Storage System. The project will connect to the Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) transmission lines. Originally developed by Marble Energy, the development rights were acquired by Pacific Partnerships (CIMIC Group) in 2024.
Australia's first competitively sourced Renewable Energy Zone transmission project. It delivers about 90 km of 500 kV and 150 km of 330 kV transmission lines, energy hubs at Merotherie and Elong Elong, and a new switching station at Barigan Creek. The network will provide 4.5 GW of new network capacity to connect solar and wind generation.
A community-led plan for the Castlereagh Country region (including Gilgandra and Warrumbungle Shires) to build resilience against drought and increased climate variability.
Aero Park Residential Estate is a council-led house and land subdivision on the north western fringe of Gilgandra. The approved estate comprises 57 residential lots, with stage 1 delivering 34 fully serviced lots and 5 earlier lots already developed along Farrar Street.
Gilgandra Solar Farm is a 5 MW ground mounted solar farm with approximately 12,000 photovoltaic panels, associated inverter stations and a battery energy storage system on an approximately 11.3 hectare project area west of Gilgandra.
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 34 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 10, 2027 8, 2028 8, 2029 3, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 1, 2035 1. 36 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 85 substantial development applications lodged in and around Coonabarabran over the past 5 years, 66 in the last 12 months; 14 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 2, 2022 4, 2023 3, 2024 3, 2025 9, 2026 (to Nov) 64.
Key application 100 Cassilis Street, Coonabarabran Aged Care | $5.8m | 14 dwellings | 1 storey
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 85 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 66 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 1.0 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 10th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 8 | ABS building approvals | 16th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 24 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 14 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Currently, there are limited major infrastructure and planning changes identified for Coonabarabran in the available data.
Infrastructure projects impacting the Coonabarabran SA2 encompass various sectors supporting community growth and economic development.
While specific investment values are not publicly disclosed for all projects impacting the Coonabarabran SA2, the area shows active development across multiple infrastructure categories within 15km.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Coonabarabran SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 26th percentile.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Coonabarabran is exceptionally low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Coonabarabran SA2 area has seen 18 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Coonabarabran SA2's current population of 7,956 has been supported by 8 approvals on average over recent years.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Coonabarabran SA2's approval levels have been consistent with the yearly average of 8, showing stable development patterns.
Over the past five years, the Coonabarabran SA2 has seen 40 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential market oversupply.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Coonabarabran has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 7,956 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +0.4% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 7th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | -0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | -0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 7,921 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 35 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | 0.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | 0.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 10,474.13 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Coonabarabran SA2 was estimated to be approximately 7,956 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 7,948 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The coonabarabran sa2 has added approximately 35 people and shown a 0.44% increase from the 7,921 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Coonabarabran SA2 is estimated at 0 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Coonabarabran SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of -0.3% per annum.
Population growth in the Coonabarabran SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (100.0%), Natural increase (0.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 100.0% of overall population gains.
Coonabarabran ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 50 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 91st percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 29.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 16.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 18.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 43.3% | 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 | 50 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.6% | 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 | 10.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 7.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 9.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 15.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 14.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 10.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 4.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Coonabarabran SA2 at 50 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 50 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 50 years as at August 2026, Coonabarabran is 7 years older than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 12 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Coonabarabran SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 14.9% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Coonabarabran SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 7.8% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Coonabarabran SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional NSW. The most over-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (4.1% vs 2.9%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 16.6% of the population in the Coonabarabran SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 29.7% of the population in the Coonabarabran SA2 as at August 2026.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 4% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $43,193 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $50,597 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,079 | 2021 Census, weekly | 6th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $557 | 2021 Census, weekly | 7th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 9.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,382 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 38.4% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Coonabarabran SA2 is approximately $45,949. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $43,193.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Coonabarabran SA2 is approximately $53,825. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $50,597.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Coonabarabran SA2 is approximately $45,949 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $43,193 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Coonabarabran SA2 is approximately $53,825 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $50,597 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Coonabarabran SA2's households (~28.6% / 823 households) is the $400 - 799 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Coonabarabran SA2 is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 28.6% 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 Coonabarabran SA2 is $1,079/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Coonabarabran SA2 is $1,382/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Coonabarabran SA2 is $557/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the Coonabarabran SA2 is below the national average, with the median assessed at $43,193 while the average income stands at $50,597. This contrasts to Regional NSW's figures of a median income of $55,733 and an average income of $69,112. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $45,949 (median) and $53,825 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Coonabarabran SA2 is $4,264 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The coonabarabran sa2's disposable income is $4,264 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Coonabarabran has been broadly consistent with national averages.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 50.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 3,324 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 7,600 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 3,436 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Coonabarabran SA2 has approximately 3,324 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.3%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Coonabarabran SA2 stands at 3.3%, which is 0.9 percentage points below Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Coonabarabran SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are agriculture, forestry & fishing (27.6% of employment), health care & social assistance (13.1%), and education & training (12.2%). These three sectors alone account for 52.9% of local employment, indicating significant concentration. Other significant employers include retail trade and public administration & safety.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Coonabarabran 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 Coonabarabran SA2 is 50.9%, 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 coonabarabran sa2 shows notable specialisation in agriculture, forestry & fishing, which employs 27.6% of the local workforce compared to 5.3% across Regional NSW. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 5.2, 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 coonabarabran sa2's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 10.0% growth, ranking 7th out of 37 regions nationally.
Coonabarabran 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 | 11.2% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 15.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 31.3% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.8% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 43.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 32.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 11.9% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 11.1% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
15.3% of people aged 15 and over in the Coonabarabran SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
43.5% of people aged 15 and over in the Coonabarabran SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The coonabarabran sa2 ranks in the 15th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Coonabarabran SA2 are: Certificate (31.3%), Bachelor Degree (11.2%), Advanced Diploma (9.8%).
32.2% of the population in the Coonabarabran SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 11.9% in primary school, 11.1% in secondary school, 2.4% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Coonabarabran SA2 is 889, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 10 schools within the Coonabarabran SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,144 students.
The coonabarabran sa2 includes 4 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 5 combined schools.
Coonabarabran features high concentrations of lone person households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.3 people | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 32.6% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 21.9% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 31.0% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 10.8% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.5% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,878 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 2,891 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 65.0% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.2 per family | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Coonabarabran SA2 had 2,878 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 2,891 households today.
The average household size in the Coonabarabran 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 65.0% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (32.6%), group households (2.5%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,871 family households, couples with children account for 21.9% of all households, couples without children at home 31.0%, and single parent families 10.8%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Coonabarabran SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Coonabarabran SA2 have an average of 2.2 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 46.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 30.4% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 32.6% of all households in the Coonabarabran 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 2.5% of households, below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
The latest Census data sees Coonabarabran 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 | 6.9% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 97.2% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 84.0% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 93.1% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 8.3% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
Coonabarabran was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 84.0% of its population being citizens, 93.1% born in Australia, and 97.2% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Coonabarabran was found to be Christianity, which makes up 67.0% of people in Coonabarabran. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Coonabarabran are Australian, comprising 33.3% of the population, English, comprising 32.6% of the population, and Australian Aboriginal, comprising 8.3% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Maltese is notably overrepresented at 0.4% of Coonabarabran (vs 0.4% across Regional NSW), Macedonian at 0.1% (vs 0.4%) and Irish at 7.8% (vs 8.8%).
6.9% of the Coonabarabran SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
2.8% of the population in the Coonabarabran SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
8.3% of the Coonabarabran SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
84.0% of the Coonabarabran SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Coonabarabran is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 22.1% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 52.7% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 96.0% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $871 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 6th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 25.2% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 1.1% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $200 | 2021 Census, weekly | 6th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 18.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 28th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 18.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 8th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the Coonabarabran SA2, 52.7% of homes are owned outright, 25.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 22.1% are rented.
According to the latest data, 96.0% of dwellings in the Coonabarabran SA2 are houses.
In the Coonabarabran SA2, 2.1% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 1.1% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Coonabarabran SA2 stands at 52.7%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Coonabarabran SA2 is $871, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Coonabarabran SA2 is $411, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Coonabarabran SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 18.6% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 18.5% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Coonabarabran SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Coonabarabran SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 18.6% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 18.5% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Coonabarabran SA2 consists of 96.0% detached houses, 1.1% semi-detached dwellings, 2.1% apartments, and 0.8% other dwelling types.
Housing in Coonabarabran consumes approximately 8.8% of median household income ($4,672 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Coonabarabran show attached dwellings contributing 50% of approvals compared to 4% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 50% of applications versus 96% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health performance in Coonabarabran is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 46.3% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 3rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 59.6% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 7.9% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 70.5% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
Around 46.3% of people in the Coonabarabran SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Coonabarabran SA2, 7.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
8.9% of people in the Coonabarabran SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.4% of the Coonabarabran SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.5% of people in the Coonabarabran SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Coonabarabran SA2, 46.3% 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 low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 39 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 39th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 516 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 99th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 360 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 20th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 15 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 42 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.5 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 19.8% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 516 public transport stops within the Coonabarabran SA2.
The Coonabarabran SA2 has 360 weekly trips across 42 routes, averaging 51 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 190 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 5.7 km away and the nearest child care centre 6.9 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 516 stops nearby, 360 weekly trips, access rating 39 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 15 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 15th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 5.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 6.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 9.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 11.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 13.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 17.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 17.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 26.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 89.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 92.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 94.3 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 2 long day care centres with 77 places in Coonabarabran, about 5.7 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 Coonabarabran 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 Coonabarabran.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Coonabarabran is exceptionally low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Coonabarabran has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 26th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Coonabarabran's affordable property market has recorded 223 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 74% residential, 15% commercial and 11% vacant land transactions.
Coonabarabran has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
Coonabarabran ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 4% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Coonabarabran has been broadly consistent with national averages.
Coonabarabran faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Coonabarabran features high concentrations of lone person households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
The latest Census data sees Coonabarabran placing among the least culturally diverse areas in the country when compared across a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Coonabarabran is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Coonabarabran is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Coonabarabran has an estimated 7,956 residents, up 0.4% since the 2021 Census, with 96 projects tracked in the area around Coonabarabran.
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 Coonabarabran.
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 Jul 2025. Housing 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 (105031099). 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 (Jul 2025) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Coonabarabran 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 Coonabarabran 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.
