Area profile · Rest of NSW
Dubbo - South has an estimated 20,928 residents, up 6.6% since the 2021 Census, with 11 projects tracked in Dubbo - South.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Situated approximately 300 kilometres northwest from Sydney CBD, the Dubbo - South Statistical Area (Lv2) represents an attractive regional setting combining dynamic lifestyle amenities, scenic landscapes, and renowned wildlife experiences. As of Aug 2026, the area accommodates a population of around 20,928, marking an expansion of 1,300 people (6.6%) since the 19,628 residents documented at the 2021 Census. This growth trajectory is underpinned by an estimated resident population (ERP) of 20,713 reported by the ABS as of June 2025 alongside 1,002 Validated New Addresses confirmed since the Census benchmark. The community is celebrated for its welcoming atmosphere, rich heritage, and cultural venues including galleries, museums, and historical sites, complemented by outdoor pursuits such as cycling, boating, walking, and local vineyard touring.
Demographically, Dubbo - South exhibits pronounced expansion patterns, featuring an elevated proportion of children aged 0 to 4yo alongside a substantial cohort aged 25 to 34yo in their family-forming stages.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Situated approximately 300 kilometres northwest from Sydney CBD, the Dubbo - South Statistical Area (Lv2) represents an attractive regional setting combining dynamic lifestyle amenities, scenic landscapes, and renowned wildlife experiences. As of Aug 2026, the area accommodates a population of around 20,928, marking an expansion of 1,300 people (6.6%) since the 19,628 residents documented at the 2021 Census. This growth trajectory is underpinned by an estimated resident population (ERP) of 20,713 reported by the ABS as of June 2025 alongside 1,002 Validated New Addresses confirmed since the Census benchmark. The community is celebrated for its welcoming atmosphere, rich heritage, and cultural venues including galleries, museums, and historical sites, complemented by outdoor pursuits such as cycling, boating, walking, and local vineyard touring.
Demographically, Dubbo - South exhibits pronounced expansion patterns, featuring an elevated proportion of children aged 0 to 4yo alongside a substantial cohort aged 25 to 34yo in their family-forming stages.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 15,475 in 2001 and 20,712 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 20,928 (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, 17.8%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 35.4%.
Dubbo - South ranks in the 96th percentile nationally for sales activity and the 90th 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 Dubbo - South is $552 a week, up 11.0% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 5% below Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 4.2%.
5% below Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $361 in 2017, $583 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $244 in 2017, $392 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 Tide Crescent, Dubbo NSW 2830 | $852,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 37 Sterling Street, Dubbo NSW 2830 | $850,000 | 29 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 18 Topaz Street, Dubbo NSW 2830 | $680,200 | 29 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 10 Beatrice Place, Dubbo NSW 2830 | $770,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 1 Macdonald Street, Dubbo NSW 2830 | $760,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 2 Nancarrow Street, Dubbo NSW 2830 | $685,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 6 Waldorf Place, Dubbo NSW 2830 | $835,000 | 24 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 2/359 Macquarie Street, Dubbo NSW 2830 | $650,000 | 24 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 3 Wheeler Street, Dubbo NSW 2830 | $617,000 | 23 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 189 Wingewarra Street, Dubbo NSW 2830 | $765,000 | 22 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 47 residential sales recorded since 1 Sep 2026 (the latest settled 1 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 47, houses and units together, was $695,000 (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 | $552 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +11.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 4.2% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $710k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $525k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $695,000 | Median of the 47 most recent residential sales, settled 1 Sep 2026 to 1 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $583 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +10.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $392 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +6.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 4.4% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 3.9% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Dubbo | $521 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Dubbo, over 12 months | +11.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Far West and Orana | $465 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Far West and Orana, over 12 months | +11.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional NSW | $580 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional NSW, over 12 months | +6.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 581 tracked applications: 123 approved, 47 under assessment, 411 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 11 projects in Dubbo - South (6 under construction) and 113 more in the surrounding area.
Australia's first Renewable Energy Zone (REZ) spans approximately 20,000 square kilometres around Dubbo and Dunedoo. The project involves constructing 90km of 500kV and 150km of 330kV transmission lines, energy hubs at Merotherie and Elong Elong, and a switching station at Barigan Creek to unlock initial network capacity growing to 6 GW by 2038.
The NSW State Emergency Service is building a new headquarters for its Western Zone at Blueridge Business Park on the eastern edge of Dubbo. The approximately $3.1 million facility replaces the existing Wingewarra Street office and is designed to coordinate large-scale emergencies, with an incident control centre, operations room, flood rescue coordination…
A $32 million neighbourhood retail destination anchored by a full-line Coles supermarket and Liquorland. The 7,968 sqm centre includes 17 specialty stores, 3 kiosks, and a car wash facility. Designed as a community hub for the Southlakes Estate, it features over 300 car parks, electric vehicle charging stations, and solar power harvesting.
Southlakes Estate is Dubbo's premier master-planned community, currently expanding to accommodate over 2300 dwellings. The development features an integrated lifestyle design with eight permanent lakes, landscaped parklands, and extensive cycleways.
A large-scale residential development in South Dubbo offering affordable land lots and house packages, totaling 992 homes on 177 hectares, developed in phases by Dubbo Regional Council and Maas Group Properties.
A purpose-built two-storey facility at Dubbo Hospital providing life-saving cancer treatment and diagnostic services. The centre features 16 chemotherapy spaces, a radiation therapy bunker, a PET CT scanner, and a dedicated wellness space for patients and families in regional and remote Western NSW.
A 14-storey mixed-use tower featuring a 162-key hotel and 41 apartments, alongside retail spaces and the refurbishment of the existing Bank Hotel.
A 15-storey mixed-use development featuring 70 apartments across 10 upper levels, ground floor retail space, communal facilities, and parking for 123 vehicles. Located on the corner of Church and Bligh Streets, overlooking the Macquarie River and Biddybungie Reserve.
A luxury 3D-printed tourist park featuring 50-100 spacious luxury 3D-printed eco-cabins, amenity blocks, glamping tents, caravan sites with ensuites, and other facilities opposite Taronga Western Plains Zoo.
Multi-purpose indoor sports facility previously planned as a $48 million Sports Hub. Following the withdrawal of NSW government funding in late 2024, PCYC NSW purchased the existing Dubbo Sports World venue in early 2025 as an alternative approach. The facility hosts PCYC operations, basketball, netball, indoor hockey, gymnastics, and various youth programs.
Construction of a 660-metre, dual-lane, 20-span, high-level bridge over the Macquarie River and floodplain, using 89 piles and 123 reinforced concrete girders to carry an approximately 5,000-tonne deck. The project includes 2.2km of new Newell Highway realignment and intersection upgrades at Whylandra, River, Thompson and Bourke Streets.
The project involves the construction of two two-bedroom duplexes using 3D printing technology, providing affordable social housing for Aboriginal tenants in Dubbo. This innovative approach reduced construction time to 20 weeks and incorporated eco-friendly materials.
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 50 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 3, 2026 14, 2027 10, 2028 7, 2029 6, 2030 6, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 1, 2035 1, 2036 1. 47 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 581 substantial development applications lodged in and around Dubbo - South over the past 5 years, 291 in the last 12 months; 47 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 18, 2022 79, 2023 70, 2024 61, 2025 78, 2026 (to Oct) 275.
Key application 216-236 Macquarie Street, Dubbo Mixed Use | $65m | 41 dwellings | 15 storeys Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 581 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 291 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 12.3 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 88th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 246 | ABS building approvals | 94th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 123 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 47 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Dubbo - South SA2 include: Central-West Orana Renewable Energy Zone (Construction); The Village Southlakes (Construction); Southlakes Estate (Construction); Keswick Estate Residential Development (Construction); and NSW SES Western Zone Headquarters Dubbo (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Dubbo - South SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Tourism, and Energy, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Dubbo - South SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 34th percentile.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Dubbo - South among the top 16% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Dubbo - South SA2 area has seen 619 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Dubbo - South SA2's current population of 20,928 has been supported by 246 approvals on average over recent years.
The Dubbo - South SA2 has seen 12.2 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 73 people in the Dubbo - 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 Dubbo - South SA2's approval levels have been slightly above the yearly average of 246, showing modest growth in recent years.
Over the past five years, the population in the Dubbo - South SA2 has grown by approximately 1,169 people, while 1,229 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.0 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.
Dubbo - South lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 20,928 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +6.6% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 823 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 48th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 19,628 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 1,300 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 25.43 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Dubbo - South SA2 was estimated to be approximately 20,928 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 20,713 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The dubbo - south sa2 has added approximately 1,300 people and shown a 6.62% increase from the 19,628 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Dubbo - South SA2 is estimated at 823 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Dubbo - South SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.9% per annum.
Population growth in the Dubbo - South SA2 is driven by: Natural increase (53.4%), Overseas migration (46.6%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Natural increase, contributing 53.4% of overall population gains.
Dubbo - South's population is younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 34 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 21st percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 16.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 20.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 28.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 51.4% | 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 | 35 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 7.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 13.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 17.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 14.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 9.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 9.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 8.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 5.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Dubbo - South SA2 at 34 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 35 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 34 years as at August 2026, Dubbo - South is 9 years younger than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 4 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Dubbo - South SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 17.8% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Dubbo - South SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 8.3% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Dubbo - South SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional NSW. The most over-represented age groups are 25-34 year-olds (17.8% vs 11.5%) and 0-4 year-olds (7.9% vs 5.6%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 20.9% of the population in the Dubbo - South SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 16.6% of the population in the Dubbo - South SA2 as at August 2026.
The economic profile demonstrates above-average performance, with income metrics exceeding national benchmarks based on AreaSearch comparative assessment.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $62,354 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 64th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $73,756 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,662 | 2021 Census, weekly | 45th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $896 | 2021 Census, weekly | 66th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 18.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,077 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 23.3% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Dubbo - South SA2 is approximately $66,332. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $62,354.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Dubbo - South SA2 is approximately $78,462. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $73,756.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Dubbo - South SA2 is approximately $66,332 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $62,354 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Dubbo - South SA2 is approximately $78,462 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $73,756 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Dubbo - South SA2's households (~35.4% / 2,600 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Dubbo - South SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 35.4% 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 Dubbo - South SA2 is $1,662/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Dubbo - South SA2 is $2,077/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Dubbo - South SA2 is $896/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Dubbo - South SA2's median income among taxpayers is $62,354, with an average of $73,756. This is just above the national average, 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 $66,332 (median) and $78,462 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Dubbo - South SA2 is $6,140 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The dubbo - south sa2's disposable income is $6,140 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Dubbo - South rank among the top 10% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 1.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 63.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 10,586 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 21,890 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 10,767 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Dubbo - South SA2 has approximately 10,586 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 1.7%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. The area ranks in the top 25% nationally for employment performance, indicating a robust job market.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Dubbo - South SA2 stands at 1.7%, which is 2.5 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 Dubbo - South SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (22.7% of employment), retail trade (10.5%), and education & training (10.3%). Other significant employers include public administration & safety and construction.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Dubbo - South 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 Dubbo - South SA2 is 63.9%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate leading the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional NSW.
The dubbo - south sa2 shows notable specialisation in health care & social assistance, which employs 22.7% of the local workforce compared to 16.9% across Regional NSW. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector.
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The dubbo - south sa2's employment market shows strong performance nationally, ranking in the top 25% of areas assessed by AreaSearch. This indicates robust employment conditions and economic vitality compared to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 10.0% growth, ranking 7th out of 37 regions nationally.
Education in Dubbo - South: university qualifications 26.4%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 956.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 17.6% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 6.1% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 26.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 27.5% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.5% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 36.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 30.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.4% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 11.5% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.7% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
26.4% of people aged 15 and over in the Dubbo - South SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
36.5% of people aged 15 and over in the Dubbo - South SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The dubbo - south sa2 ranks in the 35th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Dubbo - South SA2 are: Certificate (27.5%), Bachelor Degree (17.6%), Advanced Diploma (9.5%).
30.8% of the population in the Dubbo - South SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 11.5% in primary school, 7.7% in secondary school, 3.4% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Dubbo - South SA2 is 956, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 11 schools within the Dubbo - South SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 4,838 students.
The dubbo - south sa2 includes 5 primary schools, 3 secondary schools, 3 combined schools.
Dubbo - South features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few family households, with an average household size in line with Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 30.3% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 27.3% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 25.2% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 12.2% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.9% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 7,345 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 7,831 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 65.8% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Dubbo - South SA2 had 7,345 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 6.6% to an estimated 7,831 households today.
The average household size in the Dubbo - South SA2 is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 65.8% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (30.3%), group households (3.9%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 4,833 family households, couples with children account for 27.3% of all households, couples without children at home 25.2%, and single parent families 12.2%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Dubbo - South SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Dubbo - South SA2 have an average of 1.7 children, slightly below the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 43.7% of the adult population are currently married, while 37.5% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 30.3% of all households in the Dubbo - South 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 3.9% of households, slightly above the Regional NSW average of 3.3%.
Dubbo - South ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 13.6% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 12.6% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 87.4% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 84.1% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 86.4% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 9.8% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
Dubbo - South was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 84.1% of its population being citizens, 86.4% born in Australia, and 87.4% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Dubbo - South was found to be Christianity, which makes up 62.5% of people in Dubbo - South. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Dubbo - South are Australian, comprising 29.3% of the population, English, comprising 27.3% of the population, and Australian Aboriginal, comprising 9.8% of the population, which is substantially higher than Regional NSW's 4.6%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Sri Lankan is notably overrepresented at 0.3% of Dubbo - South (vs 0.1% across Regional NSW), Irish at 8.8% (vs 8.8%) and Indian at 1.7% (vs 0.6%).
13.6% of the Dubbo - South SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
12.6% of the population in the Dubbo - South SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
9.8% of the Dubbo - South SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
84.1% of the Dubbo - South SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Dubbo - South is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 38.7% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 27.9% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 80.6% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,567 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 33.5% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 7.9% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $320 | 2021 Census, weekly | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 19.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 36th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 21.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 29th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Dubbo - South SA2, 27.9% of homes are owned outright, 33.5% are owned with a mortgage, and 38.7% are rented.
According to the latest data, 80.6% of dwellings in the Dubbo - South SA2 are houses.
In the Dubbo - South SA2, 11.2% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 7.9% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Dubbo - South SA2 stands at 27.9%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Dubbo - South SA2 is $1,567, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Dubbo - South SA2 is $1,061, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Dubbo - South SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 21.8% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 19.3% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Dubbo - South SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Dubbo - South SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 21.8% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 19.3% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Dubbo - South SA2 consists of 80.6% detached houses, 7.9% semi-detached dwellings, 11.2% apartments, and 0.4% other dwelling types.
Housing in Dubbo - South consumes approximately 14.7% of median household income ($7,196 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Dubbo - South show attached dwellings contributing 66% of approvals compared to 19% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 34% of applications versus 81% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in Dubbo - South 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 | 54.1% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 54th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 66.0% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.2% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 73.4% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
Around 54.1% of people in the Dubbo - South SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Dubbo - South SA2, 6.2% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
9.1% of people in the Dubbo - South SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.7% of the Dubbo - South SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.9% of people in the Dubbo - South SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Dubbo - South SA2, 54.1% 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 good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 64 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 64th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 389 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 98th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 2,300 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 54th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 54 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 71 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.3 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 8.6% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 389 public transport stops within the Dubbo - South SA2.
The Dubbo - South SA2 has 2,300 weekly trips across 71 routes, averaging 328 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 139 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 513 m away and the nearest school 799 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 389 stops nearby, 2,300 weekly trips, access rating 64 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 76 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 76th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 513 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 799 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 852 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 3.0 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 16 long day care centres with 1,546 places in Dubbo - South, about 1.1 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 Dubbo - 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 Dubbo - South.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Dubbo - South among the top 16% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dubbo - South has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 34th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Dubbo - South's affordable property market has recorded 812 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 80% residential, 5% commercial and 15% vacant land transactions.
Dubbo - South lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Dubbo - South's population is younger than the national pattern.
The economic profile demonstrates above-average performance, with income metrics exceeding national benchmarks based on AreaSearch comparative assessment.
Employment conditions in Dubbo - South rank among the top 10% of areas assessed nationally.
Education in Dubbo - South: university qualifications 26.4%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 956.
Dubbo - South features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few family households, with an average household size in line with Regional NSW.
Dubbo - South ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Dubbo - South is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
Health performance in Dubbo - South is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is good 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.
Dubbo - South has an estimated 20,928 residents, up 6.6% since the 2021 Census, with 11 projects tracked in Dubbo - 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 Dubbo - 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 Oct 2026. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (105031101). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Oct 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Dubbo - 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 Dubbo - 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.
