Forbes

SA2

Rest of NSW / Lachlan Valley

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Statistical Area (SA2) Boundary Analysis

This analysis uses ABS Statistical Areas Level 2 (SA2) boundaries, which can materially differ from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) even when sharing similar names.

SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (e.g., census and ERP).

Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb/locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.

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Sales ActivityProperty Sales Trends in Forbes

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The median house price in Forbes is $480k, with units at $408k. House values have moved 6.5% a year compounded over five years.

Curious about local property values? Filter the chart to assess the volume and appreciation (including resales) trends and regional comparisons, or scroll to the map below view this information at an individual property level.

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Forbes

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Forbes has an estimated 10,039 residents. 237 new addresses have been validated here since Census night. Fewer than ten people live on each square kilometre, across a boundary that takes in surrounding rural land. Population is estimated from ABS Estimated Resident Population releases and GNAF address data, re-based from the 2021 Census and updated annually.

Detail

According to research conducted by AreaSearch, the population residing in Forbes stands at roughly 10,039 as of Aug 2026. This represents an addition of 19 people (0.2%) relative to the 2021 Census tally of 10,020 people. That figure combines the ABS estimated resident population of 10,019 recorded as of June 2025 with 237 validated new addresses identified following the Census date. Consequently, the population density sits at 2.2 persons per square kilometer, ensuring spacious living conditions. Although overall expansion is restrained, the 0.2% increase since the 2021 census outperformed the broader SA3 area (-0.4%).

The primary engine of this demographic expansion has been overseas migration, which accounted for close to 87.7% of all net population additions over recent timeframes. SA2 demographic modelling by AreaSearch utilizes ABS/Geoscience Australia projections published in 2024 (taking 2022 as the base year), supplemented by 2022 NSW State Government SA2 series (using 2021 as the base year) wherever gaps exist. Age cohort growth rates from these combined sources are subsequently extended to cover 2032 through to 2041. Over the coming years, Forbes is slated to outpace the median demographic expansion of regional Australia, with projections showing a gain of 1,299 persons to 2041 based on recent annual ERP statistics, delivering a cumulative expansion of 12.7% over the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the Forbes SA2?
Total population for the Forbes SA2 was estimated to be approximately 10,039 as at Aug 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 10,019 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the Forbes SA2 changed since 2021?
The forbes sa2 has added approximately 19 people and shown a 0.19% increase from the 10,020 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the Forbes SA2?
The population density in the Forbes SA2 is estimated at 2 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the Forbes SA2?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Forbes SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of -0.3% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the Forbes SA2?
Population growth in the Forbes SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (87.7%), Natural increase (12.3%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 87.7% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Forbes

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160 new dwellings have been approved in Forbes over the past five years, an average of 32 a year. That is 3.2 approvals per 1,000 residents. Of the 32 dwellings approved in the latest reporting year, 84% were detached houses and the rest townhouses or apartments. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this SA2 boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

Residential construction authorizations in Forbes have been running at an annual pace of about 32 dwellings, accumulating to 160 homes across the past 5 financial years. Given the recent population declines, this volume of building activity has satisfied ongoing demand, fostering an evenly balanced environment with plenty of options for purchasers, where newly built residences carry an average building value of $449,000. Additionally, commercial building approvals have reached $27.0 million this financial year, demonstrating steady investment across non-residential property. When evaluated against Rest of NSW, building activity in Forbes is marginally elevated (standing 15.0% above regional average per person over the 5 year period), which helps maintain healthy buyer choice alongside steady property valuations.

Nonetheless, building rates trail national benchmarks, pointing to an established urban footprint and potential planning limitations. Detached houses comprise 84.0% of recent approvals while townhouses or apartments make up 16.0%, preserving the traditional low-density neighborhood fabric tailored to family living and buyers seeking generous space. A ratio of roughly 328 people per dwelling approval further underlines the subdued, peaceful development pace. Demographic projections indicate an expansion of 1,279 residents across Forbes leading up to 2041 (anchored to the latest AreaSearch quarterly estimate). Should residential approval volumes remain at current levels, new housing creation could fall behind population requirements, which would likely heighten buyer competition and stimulate accelerated value gains.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the Forbes SA2 recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the Forbes SA2 area has seen 62 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Forbes SA2's current population of 10,039 has been supported by 32 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the Forbes SA2's development activity compare to the broader region?
The Forbes SA2 has seen 0.32 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.56 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 328 people in the Forbes SA2, compared to one for every 183 in the broader region.
Is the Forbes SA2 keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 1,279 people by 2041, around 640 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels may be insufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling. This indicates potential housing shortages if current approval trends continue.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the Forbes SA2?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Forbes SA2's approval levels have been consistent with the yearly average of 32, showing stable development patterns.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the Forbes SA2?
The population in the Forbes SA2 is expected to grow by 1,279 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 640 new dwellings. This calculation is based on the current census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling in the area.
How does recent development compare to population growth in the Forbes SA2?
Over the past five years, the Forbes SA2 has seen 160 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential market oversupply.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the Forbes SA2?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 32 approvals per year and a population of 10,039, there appears to be a supply shortfall relative to projected demand, presenting strong opportunities for residential developers. With the population expected to increase by 1,279 people by 2041, around 640 new dwellings will be necessary. Current approval trends may be insufficient to meet forecast demand, indicating strong development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Forbes

Development applications around Forbes

Development approvals is a new addition to AreaSearch. We’re actively expanding council coverage and refining the dataset — details and statuses for some councils may be partial. Check back regularly for the latest pipeline.
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SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Forbes

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AreaSearch tracks 5 current infrastructure and development projects inside Forbes, worth an estimated $159 million. A further 78 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $11.5 billion. 23 are already under construction and 26 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, transport & logistics and environmental & disaster management. Records are compiled from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, council planning portals and public announcements, reviewed and updated daily, then ranked by proximity, construction stage, completion horizon and project scale.

Detail

Local economic momentum is heavily shaped by major capital works, civil planning, and community infrastructure. In total, AreaSearch has identified 8 key initiatives expected to influence the district, highlighted by the Forbes Development Project, Goldridge Estate, Homemakers Centre Stage 2, and the Forbes Multipurpose Equestrian Centre.

Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.

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AI Generated Denotes AI-based impression for illustrative purposes only, not to be taken as definitive under any circumstances. Please follow links and conduct other investigations from the project's source for actual imagery. Developers and project owners wishing us to use original imagery please Contact Us and we will do so.

Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Forbes SA2?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Forbes SA2 include: Forbes Development Project (Approved); Goldridge Estate (Construction); Homemakers Centre Stage 2 (Completed); Forbes Multipurpose Equestrian Centre (Completed); and Daroobalgie Solar Farm (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the Forbes SA2?
Infrastructure development impacting the Forbes SA2 spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Sports & Recreation, and Residential Development, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the Forbes SA2?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates targeted investment in infrastructure improvements that will benefit the local area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the Forbes SA2 vicinity.
How does the Forbes SA2's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Forbes SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 28thth percentile.
Homemakers Centre Stage 2
Category: Retail
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2020
Source / Links: Link 1   

Stage two development of the Homemakers Centre featuring a 24/7 service station (Ampol Foodary), convenience store, fast food restaurant (KFC), and fuel service centre, with a $5.4 million investment.

Retail

Forbes Development Project
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Homes NSW is subdividing 10 hectares of vacant government-owned land to create around 132 new homes in a mix of private, social, and affordable housing to meet growing housing demand in Central West NSW. The development is located just a 5-minute drive from the Forbes town centre.

Residential Development

Goldridge Estate
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2032
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A modern, master-planned residential estate comprising 221 affordable lots ranging from 550sqm to over 5,000sqm, featuring sustainable design, modern services including water, power, sewer, drainage, NBN, and gas, wide leafy streets, central green spaces, and proximity to local amenities such as shops, cafes, medical facilities, golf club, sports grounds, parks, and Lake Forbes.

Residential Development

Forbes Multipurpose Equestrian Centre
Category: Sports & Recreation
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2024
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A $3.6 million multipurpose equestrian facility featuring an 80m x 60m undercover sand arena, designed to host various equestrian events from pony club sessions to rodeos, and other non-horse related events. Located near Forbes Racecourse, it serves at least 16 local user groups and boosts the local economy through sports tourism.

Sports & Recreation

Daroobalgie Solar Farm
Category: Energy
Stage: Dev. Approval | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Daroobalgie Solar Farm is a 100 MW solar farm with energy storage proposed by Pacific Blue, located 11 km northeast of Forbes in Forbes Shire Council, NSW. The project received State Significant Development approval from the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure in June 2024 (SSD-10387). Pacific Blue is commencing next steps to prepare the project for delivery. Key site attributes include high solar irradiance averaging 1,848 kWh per square metre annually, flat terrain currently used for livestock grazing and cropping, proximity to substations and NEM transmission lines, and strong road and rail access.The project is expected to generate enough electricity to power approximately 34,000 homes per year and support up to 6 permanent operational roles.

Energy

Parkes Materials Recovery And Energy From Waste Facility
Category: Sports & Recreation
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   

The NSW Government plans to build a recovery facility and an Energy from Waste facility in the Parkes Special Activation Precinct. It'll be Australia's fourth major thermal EfW facility, handling waste, recovery, and energy sales.

Sports & Recreation

Newell Highway Upgrade - Parkes Bypass
Category: Transport & Logistics
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2025
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A completed 10.5-kilometre bypass on the western outskirts of Parkes that relocated the Newell Highway about two kilometres west between Maguire Road and Barkers Road. Traffic switched onto the new bypass on 15 April 2025, and the project was formally declared complete on 21 November 2025 after 60 years of community advocacy. Key features include five intersections, two new bridges (Sir Henry Parkes Bridge over the rail corridor and Hartigan Avenue, and Burral Bridge over Victoria Street), a new shared pedestrian and cycling path, and removal of up to 1,200 trucks per day from local streets.Post-completion noise and traffic monitoring has continued through mid-2026 to confirm outcomes match modelling.

Transport & Logistics

Parkes Hospital (Lachlan Health Service)
Category: Health & Medical
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2015
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The NSW Government delivered a $72.8 million state-of-the-art hospital on a greenfield site to serve Parkes and the surrounding Western NSW region. Opened in November 2015, the facility features a 24-hour emergency department, inpatient wards, maternity and birthing suites, and surgical services. Recent 2024-2026 infrastructure updates include a $1.4 million mechanical and BMS chiller upgrade to ensure the facility's continued operational efficiency.

Health & Medical

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Forbes

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5,170 residents of Forbes are employed, from a labour force of 5,353. Unemployment sits at 3.4%, with participation at 66.4%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 5.6% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

The local labour market in Forbes displays a healthy distribution between blue-collar and white-collar roles across multiple industries, accompanied by an unemployment rate of only 3.4%. By March 2026, employed residents reached 5,170, keeping the local jobless rate 0.7% below Regional NSW's benchmark of 4.1%, while the participation rate remains exceptionally robust at 66.4% compared to Regional NSW's 60.6%. Census figures indicated that just 11.6% of workers carried out their duties from home, though this coincided with Covid-19 lockdown measures. The primary sectors supporting local employment comprise agriculture, forestry & fishing, health care & social assistance, alongside education & training.

Strong industry concentration is evident in agriculture, forestry & fishing, which commands a workforce share 3.6 times the regional level. In contrast, health care & social assistance engages a smaller proportion of the workforce at 13.2% relative to the regional benchmark of 16.9%. While local positions are available, comparing Census worker tallies against local resident counts suggests a notable degree of outbound commuting. An examination of SALM and ABS statistics by AreaSearch shows that in the year to March 2026, the available workforce contracted by 1.2% while total employment fell by 2.3%, leading to an increase of 1.1 percentage points in unemployment. Over the same span across Regional NSW, employment retreated by 0.9%, the labour supply shrank by 0.4%, and unemployment rose by 0.5 percentage points. Future workplace demand can be evaluated via Jobs and Skills Australia national projections issued in Mar-26. Projected national workforce growth stands at 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years across various sectors; when mapped directly against the local industry profile, these forecasts suggest employment gains for Forbes of 5.6% over five years and 12.1% over ten years (calculated as a simple weighted extrapolation for illustration without incorporating local demographic forecasts).

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the Forbes SA2?
As of March 2026, the Forbes SA2 has approximately 5,170 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.4%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement, though the very low unemployment rate of 3.4% indicates the ranking primarily reflects recent job losses rather than underlying labor market weakness.
How does the Forbes SA2's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the Forbes SA2 stands at 3.4%, which is 0.7 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%.
What are the major employment sectors in the Forbes SA2?
The employment landscape in the Forbes SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are agriculture, forestry & fishing (18.9% of employment), health care & social assistance (13.2%), and education & training (11.1%). Other significant employers include retail trade and construction.
How has employment changed recently in the Forbes SA2?
Over the past year to March 2026, the Forbes SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has rise. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
What is the workforce participation rate in the Forbes SA2?
The workforce participation rate in the Forbes SA2 is 66.4%, 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%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
Which industries are over-represented in the Forbes SA2's employment market?
The forbes sa2 shows notable specialization in agriculture, forestry & fishing, which employs 18.9% of the local workforce compared to 5.3% regionally. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 3.6, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area.
What are the employment growth prospects for the Forbes SA2?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the Forbes SA2's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 5.6% over the next five years and 12.1% over ten years. This compares to national growth expectations of 6.6% over five years. Steady growth is anticipated across multiple sectors, providing diverse employment opportunities.
How does the job market in the Forbes SA2 compare nationally?
The forbes sa2's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. However, the low unemployment rate of 3.4% suggests the ranking is driven by recent job losses rather than structural weakness. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 2.4% growth, ranking 7.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the Forbes SA2?
Skilled workers will find good opportunities in the Forbes SA2, with skilled sectors accounting for 29.0% of employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (13.2%), education & training (11.1%), and professional & technical (3.2%). With projected employment growth of 5.6% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Forbes

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Median household income in Forbes is $1,257 a week (about $65,000 a year), with median personal income at $714 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $50,901 a year against an average of $58,526. Household income is from the 2021 Census; taxable income is from ATO Taxation Statistics for the latest financial year available, indexed forward using the ABS Wage Price Index.

Detail

ATO taxation data compiled by AreaSearch for financial year 2023 at the postcode level indicates that earnings within the Forbes SA2 sit beneath nationwide averages, recording a median of $50,901 and a mean of $58,526. These numbers trail the broader figures for Regional NSW, which show a median income of $52,390 alongside an average income of $65,215. Incorporating a Wage Price Index rise of 10.32% since financial year 2023 adjusts current modeled levels to approximately $56,154 (median) and $64,566 (average) as of March 2026. Across Census 2021 metrics, local household, family, and individual incomes all tracked between the 17th and 31st percentiles across the country.

The most common individual income band is $1,500 - 2,999, capturing 27.1% of residents (2,720 people), which aligns closely with metropolitan shares of 29.9%. Even though living costs are manageable with households keeping 87.7% of their earnings, overall disposable income places only at the 21st percentile nationwide.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the Forbes SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Forbes SA2 is approximately $56,154. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $50,901.
What is the average taxable income in the Forbes SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Forbes SA2 is approximately $64,566. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $58,526.
How does the median taxable income in the Forbes SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Forbes SA2 is approximately $56,154 compared to $57,797 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $50,901 and $52,390 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the Forbes SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Forbes SA2 is approximately $64,566 compared to $71,945 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $58,526 and $65,215 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the Forbes SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~27.1% / 2,720 persons) of the Forbes SA2's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the Forbes SA2 compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the Forbes SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 27.1% of the population. In comparison, Regional NSW's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 29.9% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the Forbes SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Forbes SA2 is $1,257/wk.
What is the median family income in the Forbes SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Forbes SA2 is $1,688/wk.
What is the median personal income in the Forbes SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Forbes SA2 is $714/wk.
How does the Forbes SA2's income rank nationally?
The Forbes SA2's income level is below the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-23. The Forbes SA2's median income among taxpayers is $50,901 and the average income stands at $58,526, which compares to figures for Regional NSW's of $52,390 and $65,215 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $56,154 (median) and $64,566 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the Forbes SA2?
The estimated disposable income in the Forbes SA2 is $4,778 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the Forbes SA2's disposable income compare to the region?
The forbes sa2's disposable income is $4,778 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Forbes

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Forbes had 3,805 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 90% detached houses and 4% apartments. 31% are owned with a mortgage, 28% rented and 41% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $230 a week and the median mortgage repayment $1,257 a month. Rent absorbs 18.3% of household income here and mortgage repayments 23.1%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

According to the most recent Census, the local housing stock in Forbes is predominantly detached houses at 90.2%, with semi-detached, apartments, and other dwellings accounting for 9.9%, compared to the wider Regional NSW distribution of 82.6% houses and 17.4% other dwellings. Outright property ownership matches the regional rate at 40.9%, while mortgaged properties represent 31.2% and rented residences comprise 27.8%. Housing costs remain highly accessible: median monthly mortgage commitments stand at $1,257 and weekly rent averages $230, contrasting with Regional NSW benchmarks of $1,733 and $330. On a broader scale, local mortgage servicing costs sit well below the nationwide median of $1,863, and rental rates remain markedly lower than the national figure of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the Forbes SA2?
In the Forbes SA2, 40.9% of homes are owned outright, 31.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 27.8% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the Forbes SA2 are houses?
According to the latest data, 90.2% of dwellings in the Forbes SA2 are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the Forbes SA2 are apartments or units?
In the Forbes SA2, 4.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 4.3% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the Forbes SA2?
Outright home ownership in the Forbes SA2 stands at 40.9%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the Forbes SA2?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Forbes SA2 is $1,257, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
What is the median weekly rent in the Forbes SA2?
The median weekly rent in the Forbes SA2 is $230, compared to $330 in Regional NSW.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the Forbes SA2?
In the Forbes SA2, 18.0% of rentals are $0-149/week, 70.9% are $150-349/week, 10.8% are $350-649/week, 0.0% are $650-949/week, and 0.3% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the Forbes SA2?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Forbes SA2 is $669, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the Forbes SA2?
In the Forbes SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 23.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 18.3% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the Forbes SA2?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Forbes SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the Forbes SA2 compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the Forbes SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 23.1% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% regionally), while renters spend 18.3% of income on rent (vs 23.0% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the Forbes SA2?
The dwelling mix in the Forbes SA2 consists of 90.2% detached houses, 4.3% semi-detached dwellings, 4.3% apartments, and 1.3% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the Forbes SA2?
Based on the area's tenure composition, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $669. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $1,257/month, and renters paying $996/month.
How affordable is housing in the Forbes SA2 relative to local incomes?
Housing in Forbes consumes approximately 12.3% of median household income ($5,443 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
How do proposed developments compare to existing housing types in the Forbes SA2?
Recent development applications in Forbes show attached dwellings contributing 19% of approvals compared to 10% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 81% of applications versus 90% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Density increases remain below national trends.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Forbes

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Forbes counted 3,805 households at the 2021 Census, averaging 2.3 people each. 24% are couples with children, against 30% couples without children. 31% of households are people living alone, and families average 2.1 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Family units constitute the majority of local living arrangements at 66.7%, including 30.4% couples without children, 23.7% couples with children, and 11.7% single parent families. Non-family residences account for 33.3% of homes, made up of lone person households at 31.1% and group shared dwellings at 2.2%. Average household size in the area is 2.3 people, tracking slightly below the Regional NSW standard of 2.4.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the Forbes SA2?
As of the 2021 Census, the Forbes SA2 had 3,805 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 3,812 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the Forbes SA2 is 2.3 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 66.7% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (31.1%), group households (2.2%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 2,537 family households, 23.7% are couples with children, 30.4% are couples without children at home, and 11.7% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the Forbes SA2 compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Regional NSW, the Forbes SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
What is the average family size?
Families in the Forbes SA2 have an average of 2.1 children, slightly above the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the Forbes SA2?
Marriage patterns reveal 46.7% of the adult population are currently married, while 33.1% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 31.1% of all households in the Forbes SA2, similar to the regional average of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.2% of households, well below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Forbes

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15.5% of adults in Forbes hold a university qualification, including 11.7% with a bachelor degree and 2.3% with postgraduate qualifications, lower than 83% of areas nationally. A further 31.5% hold a vocational qualification. 8 schools serve the area, with 2,080 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 936 against a national benchmark of 1,000. Qualifications come from the 2021 Census; school enrolments, ICSEA and results come from ACARA's current release.

Detail

Attainment of higher education qualifications in the locality remains relatively low, with university degree holders accounting for 15.5% of the population, well underneath the wider state benchmark of 32.2% across NSW. Among tertiary credentials, bachelor degrees are held by 11.7%, postgraduate qualifications by 2.3%, and graduate diplomas by 1.5%. Conversely, vocational and technical qualifications are widespread, with 40.3% of individuals aged 15+ possessing vocational credentials, divided between certificates (31.5%) and advanced diplomas (8.8%). A substantial proportion of the local population is engaged in learning, with 30.4% actively enrolled in education programs.

Within this cohort, 12.2% are attending primary schools, 8.6% are in secondary education, and 2.5% are undertaking tertiary studies.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the Forbes SA2 have university qualifications?
15.5% of people aged 15 and over in the Forbes SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the Forbes SA2 have no formal qualifications?
44.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Forbes SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% regionally.
How does the Forbes SA2's education level compare to national averages?
The forbes sa2 ranks in the 17th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the Forbes SA2?
The most common qualifications in the Forbes SA2 are: Certificate (31.5%), Bachelor Degree (11.7%), Advanced Diploma (8.8%).
What proportion of the Forbes SA2's population is currently attending educational institutions?
30.4% of the population in the Forbes SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, with 12.2% in primary school, 8.6% in secondary school, 2.5% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the Forbes SA2?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Forbes SA2 is 936, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
How many schools are located within the Forbes SA2?
There are 8 schools within the Forbes SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,080 students.
What types of schools are available in the Forbes SA2?
The forbes sa2 includes 6 primary schools, 2 secondary schools.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Forbes

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Forbes

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Public transport in Forbes reaches 893 stops on 46 routes, timetabled for about 620 services a week. The typical home sits about 120 m from its nearest stop. Buses carry the largest share of public transport commuters. Households keep an average of 1.5 vehicles. Stop and service counts are built from operators' published GTFS timetables and refresh with each timetable release; vehicle ownership is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

The passenger transport network across Forbes includes 893 active transport stops across train and buses, with 46 routes running to deliver 622 weekly passenger trips. Public transit access is convenient, with typical walking distances to the nearest stop averaging 116 meters. Given the residential orientation of the area, daily travel involves outbound journeys, with private car transit dominating at 92% and 6% of trips made on foot. Households own an average of 1.5 vehicles per dwelling. Work-from-home adoption was recorded at 11.6% (2021 Census; potentially influenced by COVID-19 conditions). Network scheduling delivers an average of 88 trips per day across the collective transit routes, which translates to virtually no weekly departures when averaged across individual stops.

The top 100 nearest transit locations relative to the area centerpoint are shown on the accompanying map.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Forbes?
There are 893 public transport stops within the Forbes SA2.
How frequent are the transport services in Forbes?
the Forbes SA2 has 622 weekly trips across 46 routes, averaging 88 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Forbes?
On average, residential properties are 116 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Forbes

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63.6% of residents in Forbes report no long-term health condition, a less healthy profile than 87% of areas nationally. 6.2% need daily assistance with core activities, and 48.4% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 7.1 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

AreaSearch evaluations of mortality statistics and chronic disease incidence point to significant health challenges within Forbes, where long-term conditions affect both younger and older cohorts, alongside a notably subdued private health insurance coverage rate of approximately 48% of the total population (~4,858 people). This sits lower than the 51.9% level seen across Regional NSW and the nationwide standard of 55.7%. Arthritis and mental health conditions represent the most prevalent health issues locally, diagnosed in 10.7 and 8.3% of the community respectively, while 63.6% reported having no diagnosed chronic medical conditions compared to 63.3% across Regional NSW.

Chronic conditions are elevated among working-age individuals. Seniors aged 65 and over make up 23.5% of the population (2,358 people), experiencing health outcomes and national rankings that generally mirror the wider local population.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the Forbes SA2 have private health insurance?
Around 48.4% of people in the Forbes SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 51.9% in the broader region of Regional NSW.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the Forbes SA2?
In the Forbes SA2, 6.2% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the Forbes SA2?
8.2% of people in the Forbes SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the Forbes SA2?
Diabetes affects 5.6% of the the Forbes SA2 population, while in the surrounding region, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the Forbes SA2?
4.7% of people in the Forbes SA2 have heart disease. Across the region of Regional NSW, 4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the Forbes SA2 compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the Forbes SA2, 48.4% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional NSW sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 51.9%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Forbes

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Forbes is largely Australian-born, at 95.2% of residents, with 2.4% speaking a language other than English at home. The largest reported ancestries are Australian (34.3%) and English (30.7%). 9.0% of residents identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Cultural diversity measures in Forbes sit below broader state benchmarks, with Australian citizens making up 89.3% of residents, 95.2% born in Australia, and 97.6% using only English at home. Christianity is the predominant religious affiliation, encompassing 71.2% of people in Forbes, compared to 55.9% across Regional NSW. Looking at parental lineage, the primary ancestries reported across the Forbes population are Australian at 34.3%, English at 30.7%, and Irish at 9.5%. Specific cultural representations show noticeable variations against regional figures: Australian Aboriginal ancestry accounts for 9.0% of Forbes (compared to 4.6% regionally), while Macedonian ancestry represents 0.1% (vs 0.4%) and French background stands at 0.4% (vs 0.4%).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the Forbes SA2?
Forbes was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 89.3% of its population being citizens, 95.2% born in Australia, and 97.6% speaking English only at home.
What is the most common religion in the Forbes SA2?
The main religion in Forbes was found to be Christianity, which makes up 71.2% of people in Forbes. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
What are the top countries of origin in the Forbes SA2?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Forbes are Australian, comprising 34.3% of the population, English, comprising 30.7% of the population, and Irish, comprising 9.5% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Australian Aboriginal is notably overrepresented at 9.0% of Forbes (vs 4.6% regionally), Macedonian at 0.1% (vs 0.4%) and French at 0.4% (vs 0.4%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
4.8% of the the Forbes SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% regionally.
What percentage of the the Forbes SA2 population speaks a language other than English at home?
2.4% of the population in the Forbes SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in the wider region.
How many people in the Forbes SA2 identify as Australian Aboriginal?
9.0% of the the Forbes SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the Forbes SA2?
89.3% of the the Forbes SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Forbes

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The median resident of Forbes is 43. 23.2% of residents are aged 15 to 34. Age cohorts are not raw Census counts: the Census split is re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections.

Detail

The age distribution across Forbes aligns closely with benchmarks for Regional NSW, diverging by no more than 2.5 percentage points across age groups. As of August 2026, the estimated median age is 43, matching both the 2021 Census figure for Forbes and the Regional NSW median of 43 at that Census, while sitting above the national median of 38. Since that Census, the proportion of residents aged 45 - 64 has reduced from 24.8% to an estimated 23.1%. Looking ahead to 2041, residents aged 25 - 44 will generate the majority of growth, adding 398 residents (18%) to reach a total of 2,563.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the Forbes SA2?
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Forbes SA2 at 43 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 43 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
How does the Forbes SA2's median age compare to broader areas?
At an estimated 43 years as at August 2026, Forbes is equal to the Regional NSW 2021 Census average and 5 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the Forbes SA2?
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Forbes SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 13.1% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the Forbes SA2?
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Forbes SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 35 - 44 group, making up 10.6% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
No, the age distribution in the Forbes SA2 is broadly in line with the Regional NSW region.
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the Forbes SA2?
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 19.6% of the population in the Forbes SA2 as at August 2026.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the Forbes SA2?
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 23.5% of the population in the Forbes SA2 as at August 2026.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Forbes

Data currency Refreshed

9 of 14 data sections on this page were updated within the last 12 months — the newest current to Sep 2026.

Everything is aggregated to the SA2 boundary shown above, on a 2021 Census baseline. Only 3 sections — housing, households and cultural diversity — still wait on the 2026 Census.

The ledger — source, cycle and currency by section

Section Source & update cycle Currency
Updated within the last 12 months 9 sections
Population ABS, GNAF, Geoscience Australia Annual (ABS ERP) Aug 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release) and updated with new dwellings from GNAF address data. Current to Aug 2026, with the 2021 Census supplying the small-area baseline.
Age profile ABS, Geoscience Australia, State governments Annual Aug 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Age cohorts are re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections, current to Aug 2026. Each cohort is held as a Census baseline and a current estimate.
Development & approvals ABS, GNAF Monthly (ABS approvals) Aug 2026 last month headline measures · Jul 2026 baseline
Property sales & rents Valuer General, Rental Board, ABS Weekly sales, quarterly rents Sep 2026 this month all 21 measures
Sales from the state Valuer General register, refreshed weekly, and rents from quarterly rental bond lodgements. Both are read live each time this page loads, current to Sep 2026.
Infrastructure projects Infrastructure Australia, State agencies, Local governments Daily Aug 2026 last month all 5 projects tracked here
Project pipeline maintained continuously from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, local government and public announcements. Records are added and revised daily; this area was last updated Aug 2026.
Employment ABS, DEWR, JSA Quarterly (ABS SALM) Mar 2026 6 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Unemployment and labour force from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, current to Mar 2026. The growth outlook applies Department of Employment (now Jobs and Skills Australia) forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to the local industry mix, so it measures sector composition rather than local expansion and makes no allowance for population growth. Job demand comes from the same agency via its Internet Vacancy Index; industry and occupation structure from the 2021 Census.
Education ABS, ACARA Annual (ACARA) Aug 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Transport ABS, State Transport Departments Each timetable release Jul 2026 2 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Services & amenities Provider directories, ACECQA Continuous Jul 2026 2 months ago all 14 measures
Annual and financial-year sources 2 sections
Income ABS, ATO Annual (ATO) FY 2023 3 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
ATO taxable income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index. Census household income provides the distribution detail.
Health ABS, ATO Annual 2024 2 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Census-measured — next update: 2026 Census 3 sections No more current small-area source exists for these, so they are labelled as Census-measured rather than implied to be current.
Housing ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 30 measures
Households ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 18 measures
Cultural diversity ABS, Geoscience Australia 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 44 measures

"Currency" is the most recent release feeding that section. Where the Census supplies the structural baseline underneath a current headline figure, the row says so.

How the numbers are built

Population

The Census provides the small-area baseline, aggregated from mesh blocks to this boundary. It is then re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release), and new dwellings built since Census night are counted from address data — 237 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for Aug 2026, not a 2021 count (10,020 at the 2021 Census → 10,039 now). Annual growth rates are compound (CAGR), not simple averages.

Age profile

Cohort shares are not raw Census counts. Every cohort is held as a pair — the Census baseline and a current estimate — and the split is re-based using ERP and state population projections, current to Aug 2026. Median age is the Census median plus modelled change since. Charts that show both are labelled "2021 Census vs Current Estimate".

Property sales

Sourced from the state valuation authority's sales register — current, not Census, and refreshed weekly. Medians are calculated from settled transactions in the period shown; periods with very low transaction counts are flagged or suppressed, because a handful of sales can move a median substantially.

Rents

Derived from state rental bond lodgement data, by dwelling type and bedroom count. Bonds are lodged at the start of a new tenancy, so this reflects new lettings, not the whole rented stock.

Development & infrastructure

Building approvals come from current ABS releases; development applications are collected from council and state planning portals; the infrastructure pipeline is compiled from Infrastructure Australia and local government sources. Applications are matched to this boundary by address or coordinates, so very recent lodgements may not yet appear.

Employment & income

Industry and occupation structure comes from the Census, but the headline labour-market indicators do not. Unemployment and labour force are derived from ABS Small Area Labour Markets (quarterly). The employment outlook applies Department of Employment forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to this area's own industry mix (the agency is now Jobs and Skills Australia), as does the Internet Vacancy Index used for job demand. Because it is weighted on industry composition alone, that outlook carries no allowance for local population growth — in fast-growing areas the real rise in local jobs will typically be higher. Income combines Census household income with ATO taxable-income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index.

Education, transport & amenities

School enrolments, ICSEA and performance come from ACARA's current release, not the Census. Public transport stops and service frequency are derived from GTFS timetable feeds published by state transport departments. Services and amenities are proximity and count scores built from provider directories, refreshed on their own cycle. The Census contributes only the travel-to-work and qualification measures.

Rankings and benchmarks. Where we rank this area, the comparison set is every area of the same boundary type — suburbs against suburbs, SA2s against SA2s. Benchmarks compare this area against its greater capital city region and the national figure for the same measure and period.

Limits worth knowing. Small areas carry larger error margins, and the ABS introduces small random adjustments to Census counts to protect confidentiality — so totals may not sum exactly. Estimates re-based from regional data describe the area's expected trajectory, not a direct count of it. Figures are indicative for research and are not financial, planning or valuation advice.

Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (103021065). QuickStats reports 2021 only — the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.

Common questions about this page

Why can the Forbes SA2 boundary differ from the suburb boundary?
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (e.g., 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.
Where does the data on this Forbes page come from?
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources — including ABS, Geoscience Australia, Valuer General, Provider directories, DEWR, JSA, State Transport Departments and ACARA — then aggregates them to the boundary shown and calculates the rankings, 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.
Is the Forbes data on this page just from the 2021 Census?
No. Most of this page is maintained well beyond the Census. Sourced entirely from current releases: development & approvals (Aug 2026), property sales & rents (Sep 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to Aug 2026), age profile (to Aug 2026), employment (to Mar 2026), income (to FY 2023), education (to Aug 2026), transport (to Jul 2026) and health (to 2024). Population and age cohorts in particular are re-based to the latest ABS Estimated Resident Population rather than left at 2021 counts. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.

Nearby Areas