Area profile · Rest of NSW
Gunnedah Surrounds has an estimated 4,623 residents, up 5.8% since the 2021 Census, with 77 projects tracked in the area around Gunnedah Surrounds.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Order a reportDraw your own catchment
You are viewing the free Snapshot. Dashboard puts rankings, rents, projects and services on one screen, and Full adds every chapter with charts and maps. Dashboard and Full are included with AreaSearch Operator and Pro, or unlocked by the area's Area Expert. You need to log in to open them.
Free with an AreaSearch account. Pro is not needed.Free. Built in your browser.
01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Positioned 338 kilometres north-northwest from Sydney CBD, the Gunnedah Surrounds Statistical Area (Lv2) occupies an idyllic setting celebrated for picturesque landscapes, rich rolling hills, and abundant wildlife, including one of the country's most significant koala populations. As of Aug 2026, the estimated resident population (ERP) for the area reached approximately 4,623, indicating an expansion of 254 people (5.8%) since the 2021 Census count of 4,369. This ongoing demographic growth is underpinned by an ABS estimated resident population of 4,611 as of June 2025 alongside 130 validated new addresses logged post-Census, reflecting moderate expansion within a welcoming rural community endowed with a vibrant cultural heritage.
The local socioeconomic framework is characterised by a high prevalence of detached dwellings and substantial rates of outright home ownership, set against relatively low property sales activity in relation to population size.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 4,488 in 2001 and 4,611 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 4,623 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 5 to 14, 13.4%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 30.8%.
Gunnedah Surrounds ranks in the 71st percentile nationally for employment drivers and the 59th for health.
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 Gunnedah Surrounds is $443 a week, up 10.4% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 24% below Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 5.3%.
24% below Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $336 in 2017, $462 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $267 in 2017, $372 in 2025. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 56 Donaldson Street, Curlewis NSW 2381 | $560,000 | 24 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 81 Lynn Street, Boggabri NSW 2382 | $400,000 | 24 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 4 Pine Street, Curlewis NSW 2381 | $389,000 | 23 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 106 Wee Waa Street, Boggabri NSW 2382 | $340,000 | 21 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 54 Pullaming Street, Curlewis NSW 2381 | $502,000 | 18 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 26 Walton Street, Boggabri NSW 2382 | $510,000 | 16 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 2 Breeza Street, Carroll NSW 2340 | $400,000 | 14 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 31 Parnell Street, Curlewis NSW 2381 | $525,000 | 11 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 8 Old Cemetery Lane, Curlewis NSW 2381 | $325,000 | 9 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 56 Pine Street, Curlewis NSW 2381 | $450,000 | 3 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 37 residential sales recorded since 19 Mar 2026 (the latest settled 24 Sep 2026), newest first. The median of these 37, houses and units together, was $400,000 (a different set from the medians above). Source: NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch, to September 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 | $443 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +10.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 5.3% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $440k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $219k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $400,000 | Median of the 37 most recent residential sales, settled 19 Mar 2026 to 24 Sep 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $462 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +20.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 5.5% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Tamworth - Gunnedah | $488 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Tamworth - Gunnedah, over 12 months | +9.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, New England and North West | $453 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, New England and North West, over 12 months | +8.2% | 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 54 tracked applications: 15 approved, 10 under assessment, 29 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Gunnedah Surrounds, then export the list.
The map builder can plot
AreaSearch tracks 77 projects in and around Gunnedah Surrounds, 21 of them under construction.
Large lot residential subdivision creating 36 additional rural residential holdings with minimum 9,000 square metre lots south of Gunnedah.
122.63 hectares of rural land, known as 'Derriwee', sold in September 2024 for development.
The Gunnedah Koala Sanctuary is a 50-acre conservation, wildlife hospital and eco-tourism destination on the Oxley Highway at Gunnedah.
Second stage development of the Sawmill Business Centre providing additional commercial and light industrial facilities.
Redevelopment of the regional saleyards including new multi-administration and buyers facility, new pens, improvements to internal roads…
Transport for NSW is undertaking a $10.6 million essential rehabilitation of the heritage-listed Cohens Bridge over the Namoi River in…
The $53 million Gunnedah Hospital Redevelopment officially opened to the public on January 14, 2026.
Proposed lifestyle, health and retail precinct in the Gunnedah CBD by Stripes Group.
NSW Government's Cooler Classrooms program improving air conditioning and ventilation in Gunnedah Public School.
The Vickery Extension Project involves the construction of a new open-cut coal mine and associated on-site infrastructure 25 kilometres…
Accessibility upgrade to Gunnedah Railway Station delivered by Transport for NSW under the Transport Access Program, including platform…
Whitehaven Coal's staged residential estate in Gunnedah, delivering housing for the mining workforce and broader community.
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 36 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2023 1, 2024 0, 2025 0, 2026 10, 2027 15, 2028 7, 2029 0, 2030 1, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 1, 2035 1. 26 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 54 substantial development applications lodged in and around Gunnedah Surrounds over the past 5 years, 27 in the last 12 months; 10 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 5, 2022 8, 2023 7, 2024 5, 2025 2, 2026 (to Oct) 27.
Key application 123 Merton Street, Boggabri Commercial | $12m Approved
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 54 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 27 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 1.3 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 14th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 6 | ABS building approvals | 13th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 15 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 10 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 include: Gunnedah Koala Sanctuary (Construction); Sawmill Business Centre Stage 2 (Construction); Gunnedah Regional Saleyards Redevelopment (Completed); Cohens Bridge Rehabilitation (Construction); and Gunnedah Hospital Redevelopment (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Communities, and Business Parks & Technology Hubs, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 0th percentile.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Gunnedah Surrounds compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 area has seen 9 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Gunnedah Surrounds SA2's current population of 4,623 has been supported by 6 approvals on average over recent years.
The Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 has seen 1.3 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 5.7 approvals in Regional NSW. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 1145 people in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 6, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 has grown by approximately 280 people, while 28 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 10.0 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
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 Gunnedah Surrounds reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 4,623 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +5.8% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 7th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 4,369 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 254 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +2.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 5,765.86 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 was estimated to be approximately 4,623 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 4,611 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The gunnedah surrounds sa2 has added approximately 254 people and shown a 5.81% increase from the 4,369 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 is estimated at 0 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.6% per annum.
Population growth in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 is driven by: Interstate migration (51.3%), Natural increase (40.4%), Overseas migration (8.3%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 51.3% of overall population gains.
Gunnedah Surrounds's population is slightly older than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 41 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 59th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 20.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 20.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 22.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 47.5% | 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 | 41 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 6.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 13.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 10.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 11.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 6.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 at 41 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 41 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 41 years as at August 2026, Gunnedah Surrounds is 2 years younger than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) yet 3 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 13.4% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 6.0% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 is broadly in line with Regional NSW.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 20.1% of the population in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 20.5% of the population in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 as at August 2026.
The area's income profile falls below national averages based on AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $56,302 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 38th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $69,313 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,585 | 2021 Census, weekly | 40th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $739 | 2021 Census, weekly | 36th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 21.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,923 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 24.4% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 is approximately $59,894. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $56,302.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 is approximately $73,735. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $69,313.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 is approximately $59,894 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $56,302 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 is approximately $73,735 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $69,313 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2's households (~30.8% / 469 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 30.8% 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 Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 is $1,585/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 is $1,923/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 is $739/wk.
The Gunnedah Surrounds SA2's income level is just below the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Gunnedah Surrounds SA2's median income among taxpayers is $56,302 and the average income stands at $69,313, which compares to figures for Regional NSW's of $55,733 and $69,112 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $59,894 (median) and $73,735 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 is $6,175 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The gunnedah surrounds sa2's disposable income is $6,175 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis places Gunnedah Surrounds well above average for employment performance across multiple indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.6% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 75.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,707 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 4,544 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,778 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 has approximately 2,707 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.6%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 stands at 2.6%, which is 1.6 percentage points below Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are agriculture, forestry & fishing (31.4% of employment), mining (11.9%), and health care & social assistance (9.5%). These three sectors alone account for 52.8% of local employment, indicating significant concentration. Other significant employers include education & training and retail trade.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. 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 Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 is 75.5%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate leading the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
The gunnedah surrounds sa2 shows notable specialisation in agriculture, forestry & fishing, which employs 31.4% of the local workforce compared to 5.3% across Regional NSW. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 5.9, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The gunnedah surrounds 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 experienced 17.0% growth, ranking 2nd out of 37 regions nationally.
Skilled workers will find selective opportunities in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2, with knowledge-based sectors representing 20.5% of local jobs. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (9.5%), education & training (7.5%), and professional & technical (2.5%).
Gunnedah Surrounds faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 12.6% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 15.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 30.7% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.2% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.5% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 44.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 31.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 1.9% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 13.1% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 8.6% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
15.5% of people aged 15 and over in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
44.4% of people aged 15 and over in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The gunnedah surrounds sa2 ranks in the 11th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 are: Certificate (30.7%), Bachelor Degree (12.6%), Advanced Diploma (9.5%).
31.5% of the population in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 13.1% in primary school, 8.6% in secondary school, 1.9% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 is 883, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 6 schools within the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 286 students.
The gunnedah surrounds sa2 includes 6 primary schools.
Gunnedah Surrounds features high concentrations of couples without children, with a larger average household size than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.6 people | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 22.4% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 31.6% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 31.9% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 9.9% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,521 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,609 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 74.8% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.1 per family | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 had 1,521 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 5.8% to an estimated 1,609 households today.
The average household size in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 is 2.6 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 74.8% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (22.4%), group households (2.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,138 family households, couples with children account for 31.6% of all households, couples without children at home 31.9%, and single parent families 9.9%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 74.8% (versus 68.8% in Regional NSW). Conversely, lone person households are under-represented at 22.4% compared to 27.9% in Regional NSW. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Gunnedah Surrounds 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.
Marriage patterns reveal 48.8% of the adult population are currently married, while 34.2% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 22.4% of all households in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2, notably lower than the average for Regional NSW of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.8% of households, slightly below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%.
The latest Census data sees Gunnedah Surrounds placing among the least culturally diverse areas in the country when compared across a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 4.4% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 98.5% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 88.4% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 95.6% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 7.6% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
Gunnedah Surrounds was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 88.4% of its population being citizens, 95.6% born in Australia, and 98.5% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Gunnedah Surrounds was found to be Christianity, which makes up 66.0% of people in Gunnedah Surrounds. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Gunnedah Surrounds are Australian, comprising 37.2% of the population, which is substantially higher than Regional NSW's 30.0%, English, comprising 31.5% 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 7.6% of Gunnedah Surrounds (vs 4.6% across Regional NSW), Scottish at 7.5% (vs 8.0%) and South African at 0.3% (vs 0.2%).
4.4% of the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
1.5% of the population in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
7.6% of the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
88.4% of the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Gunnedah Surrounds is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 23.2% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 44.7% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 98.1% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,300 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 18th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 32.1% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 1.1% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $275 | 2021 Census, weekly | 19th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 17.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 18th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 18.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 9th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2, 44.7% of homes are owned outright, 32.1% are owned with a mortgage, and 23.2% are rented.
According to the latest data, 98.1% of dwellings in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 are houses.
In the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2, 0.2% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 1.1% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 stands at 44.7%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 is $1,300, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 is $693, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 18.9% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 17.4% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 18.9% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 17.4% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 consists of 98.1% detached houses, 1.1% semi-detached dwellings, 0.2% apartments, and 0.7% other dwelling types.
Housing in Gunnedah Surrounds consumes approximately 10.1% of median household income ($6,863 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Development activity remains minimal in this area with fewer than 5 recent applications recorded.
Health in Gunnedah Surrounds: private health cover 52.0%, no long-term health condition 66.9%.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 52.0% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 41st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 66.9% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.5% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 74.0% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
Around 52.0% of people in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2, 5.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
9.6% of people in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.4% of the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.2% of people in the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2, 52.0% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional NSW sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 52.2%.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 39 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 39th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 340 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 97th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 361 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 20th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 14 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 40 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 2.0 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 19.3% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 340 public transport stops within the Gunnedah Surrounds SA2.
The Gunnedah Surrounds SA2 has 361 weekly trips across 40 routes, averaging 51 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 323 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 7.6 km away and the nearest GP 15.1 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 340 stops nearby, 361 weekly trips, access rating 39 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest school | 7.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 15.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 15.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 15.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 16.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 16.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 25.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 26.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 26.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 26.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 26.7 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 is 1 long day care centre with 32 places in Gunnedah Surrounds, about 9.7 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Gunnedah Surrounds is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
More sectors are coming soon for suburbs and areas. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Gunnedah Surrounds.
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 Gunnedah Surrounds compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Gunnedah Surrounds has limited levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 0th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Gunnedah Surrounds's affordable property market has recorded 131 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 56% residential, 33% commercial and 11% vacant land transactions.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Gunnedah Surrounds reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Gunnedah Surrounds's population is slightly older than the national pattern.
The area's income profile falls below national averages based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis places Gunnedah Surrounds well above average for employment performance across multiple indicators.
Gunnedah Surrounds faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Gunnedah Surrounds features high concentrations of couples without children, with a larger average household size than Regional NSW.
The latest Census data sees Gunnedah Surrounds placing among the least culturally diverse areas in the country when compared across a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Gunnedah Surrounds is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health in Gunnedah Surrounds: private health cover 52.0%, no long-term health condition 66.9%.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Gunnedah Surrounds has an estimated 4,623 residents, up 5.8% since the 2021 Census, with 77 projects tracked in the area around Gunnedah Surrounds.
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 Gunnedah Surrounds.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Sep 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Jun 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 (110041200). 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 (Jun 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 Gunnedah Surrounds 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 Gunnedah Surrounds 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.
