Area profile · Rest of NSW
East Maitland - Metford has an estimated 18,384 residents, up 2.2% since the 2021 Census, with 7 projects tracked in East Maitland - Metford.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The East Maitland - Metford Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 127 kilometres north-northeast from Sydney CBD. Its population is around 18,384 as of Aug 2026, with minimal change since the 2021 Census count of 17,981 people. AreaSearch's assessment of the latest ERP outputs from the ABS and new addresses added since the Census indicates no significant movements. (ERP) means Estimated Resident Population.
The area offers strong service amenity, with notable mining, elevated healthcare, pronounced hospitality, and substantial retail trade employment. Its age composition is fairly standard, with a median age of 39, and population growth is moderate. Sales volumes are significantly above average relative to population. The location combines historical heritage and preserved buildings with natural landscapes, parks, shopping centres, schools, recreational facilities, and contemporary suburban living. The latest population estimate date is Aug 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The East Maitland - Metford Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 127 kilometres north-northeast from Sydney CBD. Its population is around 18,384 as of Aug 2026, with minimal change since the 2021 Census count of 17,981 people. AreaSearch's assessment of the latest ERP outputs from the ABS and new addresses added since the Census indicates no significant movements. (ERP) means Estimated Resident Population.
The area offers strong service amenity, with notable mining, elevated healthcare, pronounced hospitality, and substantial retail trade employment. Its age composition is fairly standard, with a median age of 39, and population growth is moderate. Sales volumes are significantly above average relative to population. The location combines historical heritage and preserved buildings with natural landscapes, parks, shopping centres, schools, recreational facilities, and contemporary suburban living. The latest population estimate date is Aug 2026.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 14,674 in 2001 and 18,334 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 18,384 (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, 13.5%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 33.1%.
East Maitland - Metford ranks in the 92nd percentile nationally for amenities and the 85th for transport & access.
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 East Maitland - Metford is $600 a week, up 7.2% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 3% above Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.8%.
3% above Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $388 in 2017, $635 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $264 in 2017, $465 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 82 Worcester Drive, East Maitland NSW 2323 | $920,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 1/155 High Street, East Maitland NSW 2323 | $380,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 42 Lord Howe Drive, Ashtonfield NSW 2323 | $808,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 2/11 Proserpine Close, Ashtonfield NSW 2323 | $640,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 15 Stonehaven Drive, Metford NSW 2323 | $812,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 92 George Street, East Maitland NSW 2323 | $1,100,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 13 Rous Street, East Maitland NSW 2323 | $915,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 12 Yasawa Close, Ashtonfield NSW 2323 | $925,000 | 29 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 185 Lawes Street, East Maitland NSW 2323 | $750,000 | 29 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 65 Flinders Street, East Maitland NSW 2323 | $950,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 49 residential sales recorded since 21 Aug 2026 (the latest settled 6 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 49, houses and units together, was $845,000 (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 | $600 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +7.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.8% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $872k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $600k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $845,000 | Median of the 49 most recent residential sales, settled 21 Aug 2026 to 6 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $635 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +4.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $465 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +9.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.8% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 4.0% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Maitland | $631 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Maitland, over 12 months | +4.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional NSW | $580 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional NSW, over 12 months | +6.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, NSW | $715 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, NSW, over 12 months | +5.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 327 tracked applications: 186 approved, 35 under assessment, 106 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around East Maitland - Metford, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 7 projects in East Maitland - Metford (1 under construction) and 110 more in the surrounding area.
A purpose-built 64-bed mental health facility on the Maitland Hospital campus. It features a transitional model of care with three inpatient units: low-secure and medium-secure forensic units, and a rehabilitation and recovery unit.
A long-term conceptual urban transformation initiative covering the post-mining repurposing of the Bloomfield Colliery and adjoining landholdings southeast of Maitland in the Lower Hunter.
A $470 million state-of-the-art 339-bed hospital featuring emergency care, maternity services, paediatric care, surgical services, chemotherapy chairs, and a rooftop helipad.
Modification 5 to extend open-cut coal mining operations at Bloomfield Colliery, an existing mine 20km northwest of Newcastle in the Hunter Valley, until 31 December 2035.
A $414 million expansion that doubled the size of the shopping centre to 74,000 square metres, adding a second level with over 220 specialty stores including David Jones, H&M, Target, JB Hi-Fi, and The Courtyard outdoor dining precinct with LED light trees.
Completed upgrade to Ashtonfield Public School providing 12 new permanent classrooms in a two-storey building, student amenities including toilets, a lift, and refurbishments to the library, administration areas, canteen with covered outdoor learning area (COLA), and hall.
A 37-lot residential land subdivision in East Maitland offering large elevated homesites from 800 to 1,397sqm with views over the Wallis Creek floodplains and Broken Back Ranges. The estate is now largely sold out, with only three lots remaining available (Lots 6, 31 and 32).
Chisholm Plaza is a $180 million neighbourhood shopping centre currently under construction in the Waterford Estate. The 15,000 sqm development is triple-anchored by Woolworths, Aldi, and Dan Murphys, and will include over 50 specialty stores.
Sophia Waters Estate is a master-planned residential community in Chisholm developed by Allam Property Group. Originally planned for around 1,500 lots across multiple stages, a further 600+ lots were acquired in late 2024 bringing the total to approximately 2,100 dwellings.
Subdivision of one lot into two Torrens title lots, construction of dual occupancies (detached) and strata subdivision at 12 Goldingham Street, Tenambit.
A $2.6 million intersection upgrade project at Raymond Terrace Road and Government Road. The project included new traffic signals, road widening for two through lanes in each direction, construction of right turn bays, and new pedestrian facilities to improve traffic flow and safety. The project was completed in February 2025.
Waterford is a masterplanned community in Chisholm, NSW, developed by AVID Property Group. The project spans approximately 173 hectares including 74 hectares of green space, wetlands, and parks, with 7km of walking and cycling paths.
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 61 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 3, 2026 22, 2027 15, 2028 12, 2029 0, 2030 4, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 3, 2036 1. 22 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 327 substantial development applications lodged in and around East Maitland - Metford over the past 5 years, 182 in the last 12 months; 35 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 5, 2022 33, 2023 36, 2024 29, 2025 44, 2026 (to Oct) 180.
Key application Metford Road, Metford Commercial | $16m | 2 storeys
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 327 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 182 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 2.1 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 26th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 38 | ABS building approvals | 50th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 186 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 35 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the East Maitland - Metford SA2 include: Maitland Mental Health Rehabilitation Project (Construction); Stony Pinch Urban Development (Proposed); Bloomfield Colliery Continuation Project (Under Assessment); Sophia Waters Estate (Construction); and Wallis Meadows Estate (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the East Maitland - Metford SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Sports & Recreation, and Residential Development, among others.
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On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in East Maitland - Metford compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 area has seen 80 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The East Maitland - Metford SA2's current population of 18,384 has been supported by 38 approvals on average over recent years.
The East Maitland - Metford SA2 has seen 2.1 approval per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 5.7 approvals in Regional NSW. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 472 people in the East Maitland - Metford SA2, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the East Maitland - Metford SA2's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 38, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 has grown by approximately 175 people, while 190 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.9 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.
An assessment of population growth drivers in East Maitland - Metford reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 18,384 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +2.2% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 848 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 48th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | 0.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 17,981 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 403 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 21.68 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the East Maitland - Metford SA2 was estimated to be approximately 18,384 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 18,334 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The east maitland - metford sa2 has added approximately 403 people and shown a 2.24% increase from the 17,981 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is estimated at 848 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.0% per annum.
Population growth in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is driven by: Natural increase (50.1%), Overseas migration (49.9%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Natural increase, contributing 50.1% of overall population gains.
East Maitland - Metford's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 39 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 46th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 18.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 18.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 25.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 50.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 39 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 12.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 12.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 13.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 13.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 11.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 10.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 6.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 at 39 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 39 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 39 years as at August 2026, East Maitland - Metford is 4 years younger than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) yet comparable to the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 13.5% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 10.1% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is broadly in line with Regional NSW.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 18.0% of the population in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 18.8% of the population in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 as at August 2026.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $60,237 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 56th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $72,558 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,590 | 2021 Census, weekly | 40th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $763 | 2021 Census, weekly | 41st percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 19.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,990 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 24.6% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is approximately $64,080. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $60,237.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is approximately $77,187. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $72,558.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is approximately $64,080 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $60,237 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is approximately $77,187 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $72,558 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the East Maitland - Metford SA2's households (~33.1% / 2,262 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 33.1% of households. In comparison, Regional NSW's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 29.9% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is $1,590/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is $1,990/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is $763/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is just above the national average, with the median assessed at $60,237 while the average income stands at $72,558. 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 $64,080 (median) and $77,187 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is $5,752 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The east maitland - metford sa2's disposable income is $5,752 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis indicates East Maitland - Metford maintains employment conditions that align with national benchmarks.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 62.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 8,808 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 17,691 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 9,169 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the East Maitland - Metford SA2 has approximately 8,808 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.9%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 stands at 3.9%, which is broadly in line with Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (17.4% of employment), retail trade (11.0%), and construction (8.5%). Other significant employers include accommodation & food and education & training.
Over the past year to June 2026, the East Maitland - Metford SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is 62.1%, 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 east maitland - metford sa2 shows notable specialisation in mining, which employs 5.1% of the local workforce compared to 2.5% across Regional NSW. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 2.0, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area.
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The east maitland - metford sa2's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 4.8% decline, ranking 33rd out of 37 regions nationally.
East Maitland - Metford shows below-average educational performance compared to national benchmarks, though pockets of achievement exist.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 12.8% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.4% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 18.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 30.2% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.8% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 40.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 29.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 4.2% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 10.4% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 8.3% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
18.0% of people aged 15 and over in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
40.9% of people aged 15 and over in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The east maitland - metford sa2 ranks in the 43th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 are: Certificate (30.2%), Bachelor Degree (12.8%), Advanced Diploma (10.8%).
29.7% of the population in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 10.4% in primary school, 8.3% in secondary school, 4.2% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is 1000, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 9 schools within the East Maitland - Metford SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 3,857 students.
The east maitland - metford sa2 includes 4 primary schools, 5 combined schools.
East Maitland - Metford features high concentrations of single parent families, with a larger average household size than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.5 people | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 26.8% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 30.0% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 25.7% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 13.5% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 6,833 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 6,986 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 70.4% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.8 per family | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the East Maitland - Metford SA2 had 6,833 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 2.2% to an estimated 6,986 households today.
The average household size in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is 2.5 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 70.4% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (26.8%), group households (2.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 4,810 family households, couples with children account for 30.0% of all households, couples without children at home 25.7%, and single parent families 13.5%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the East Maitland - Metford SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 have an average of 1.8 children, matching the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 44.3% of the adult population are currently married, while 36.4% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 26.8% of all households in the East Maitland - Metford 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 2.8% of households, slightly below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%.
East Maitland - Metford is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 11.0% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 7.1% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 92.9% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 91.7% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 89.0% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 4.8% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
East Maitland - Metford was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 89.0% of its population born in Australia, 91.7% being citizens, and 92.9% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in East Maitland - Metford was found to be Christianity, which makes up 56.8% of people in East Maitland - Metford. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in East Maitland - Metford are English, comprising 31.5% of the population, Australian, comprising 30.9% of the population, and Irish, comprising 8.2% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Australian Aboriginal is notably overrepresented at 4.8% of East Maitland - Metford (vs 4.6% across Regional NSW), Welsh at 0.6% (vs 0.5%) and Samoan at 0.2% (vs 0.1%).
11.0% of the East Maitland - Metford SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
7.1% of the population in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
4.8% of the East Maitland - Metford SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
91.7% of the East Maitland - Metford SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
East Maitland - Metford 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 | 34.8% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 30.0% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 81.1% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,733 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 35.2% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 13.8% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $350 | 2021 Census, weekly | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 22.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 25.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 60th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the East Maitland - Metford SA2, 30.0% of homes are owned outright, 35.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 34.8% are rented.
According to the latest data, 81.1% of dwellings in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 are houses.
In the East Maitland - Metford SA2, 5.1% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 13.8% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 stands at 30.0%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is $1,733, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is $1,137, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the East Maitland - Metford SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 25.2% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 22.0% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 25.2% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 22.0% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 consists of 81.1% detached houses, 13.8% semi-detached dwellings, 5.1% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in East Maitland - Metford consumes approximately 16.5% of median household income ($6,885 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in East Maitland - Metford show attached dwellings contributing 22% of approvals compared to 19% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 78% of applications versus 81% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in East Maitland - Metford is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across the board, though to a considerably higher degree among older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 53.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 51st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 61.4% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.6% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 68.2% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
Around 53.7% of people in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the East Maitland - Metford SA2, 6.6% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
9.5% of people in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.0% of the East Maitland - Metford SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.8% of people in the East Maitland - Metford SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the East Maitland - Metford SA2, 53.7% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional NSW sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 52.2%.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 85 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 85th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 210 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 5,964 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 83rd percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 88 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 150 | 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 | 21.0% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 210 public transport stops within the East Maitland - Metford SA2.
The East Maitland - Metford SA2 has 5,964 weekly trips across 150 routes, averaging 852 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 149 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 453 m away and the nearest school 764 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 210 stops nearby, 5,964 weekly trips, access rating 85 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 92 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 453 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 764 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 935 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest GP | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 5.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 6.3 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 8 long day care centres with 551 places in East Maitland - Metford, about 1.8 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on East Maitland - Metford is built to order and emailed to you.
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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.
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in East Maitland - Metford compared with local real estate markets nationally.
East Maitland - Metford ranks in the 38th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
East Maitland - Metford's established property market has recorded 401 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 93% residential, 5% commercial and 2% vacant land transactions.
An assessment of population growth drivers in East Maitland - Metford reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
East Maitland - Metford's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis indicates East Maitland - Metford maintains employment conditions that align with national benchmarks.
East Maitland - Metford shows below-average educational performance compared to national benchmarks, though pockets of achievement exist.
East Maitland - Metford features high concentrations of single parent families, with a larger average household size than Regional NSW.
East Maitland - Metford is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
East Maitland - Metford is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
Health performance in East Maitland - Metford is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across the board, though to a considerably higher degree among older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is high 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.
East Maitland - Metford has an estimated 18,384 residents, up 2.2% since the 2021 Census, with 7 projects tracked in East Maitland - Metford.
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 East Maitland - Metford.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Oct 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Aug 2026. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (106021614). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for East Maitland - Metford 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 East Maitland - Metford 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.
