Area profile · Rest of NSW
Lithgow Surrounds has an estimated 8,632 residents, up 2.2% since the 2021 Census, with 10 projects tracked in Lithgow Surrounds.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Lithgow Surrounds Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 118 kilometres west-northwest from Sydney CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 8,632 as of Aug 2026. The area has a strong outright home ownership profile and is characterised by detached housing, a notable utilities employment base, pronounced mining employment and substantial administrative employment. Mature and retirement-aged residents, including an elevated proportion aged 55 to 64yo, feature prominently, as do couples without children. The area generally has lower educational attainment and shows moderate population expansion.
Its picturesque valleys, forests and waterfalls provide opportunities for outdoor activities including bushwalking, hiking and camping. The area also has a rich industrial and colonial history, reflected in its heritage railway and historical sites, alongside charming villages offering local food and shopping. These natural and cultural attractions make the location a destination for a memorable getaway in NSW, Australia.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Lithgow Surrounds Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 118 kilometres west-northwest from Sydney CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 8,632 as of Aug 2026. The area has a strong outright home ownership profile and is characterised by detached housing, a notable utilities employment base, pronounced mining employment and substantial administrative employment. Mature and retirement-aged residents, including an elevated proportion aged 55 to 64yo, feature prominently, as do couples without children. The area generally has lower educational attainment and shows moderate population expansion.
Its picturesque valleys, forests and waterfalls provide opportunities for outdoor activities including bushwalking, hiking and camping. The area also has a rich industrial and colonial history, reflected in its heritage railway and historical sites, alongside charming villages offering local food and shopping. These natural and cultural attractions make the location a destination for a memorable getaway in NSW, Australia.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 7,567 in 2001 and 8,544 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 8,632 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 55 to 64, 16.1%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 29.3%.
Lithgow Surrounds ranks in the 52nd percentile nationally for sales activity and the 50th for amenities.
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 Lithgow Surrounds is $479 a week, up 6.3% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 17% below Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 4.2%.
17% below Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses: $311 in 2017, $487 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
Yield is indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools.
| Address | Sale price | Settled | Address type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 107 Valley View Road, Dargan NSW 2786 | $895,000 | 7 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 58 Wallerawang Road, Portland NSW 2847 | $515,000 | 7 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 873 Jenolan Caves Road, Good Forest NSW 2790 | $1,850,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 2 Wallerawang Road, Portland NSW 2847 | $535,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 9 Bate Street, Portland NSW 2847 | $690,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 54 Lime Street, Portland NSW 2847 | $470,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 37 Kiln Street, Portland NSW 2847 | $390,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 10 Purcell Street, Portland NSW 2847 | $605,000 | 21 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 20 Cary Avenue, Wallerawang NSW 2845 | $510,000 | 16 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 10/53 Pipers Flat Road, Wallerawang NSW 2845 | $335,000 | 10 Sep 2026 | Unit |
The 10 most recent of the 43 residential sales recorded since 27 May 2026 (the latest settled 7 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 43, houses and units together, was $595,000 (a different set from the medians above). Source: NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch, to October 2026. Commercial, vacant land and nominal sales are left out. Unit means the address has a unit number; a street address has none.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $479 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +6.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 4.2% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $595k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $379k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $595,000 | Median of the 43 most recent residential sales, settled 27 May 2026 to 7 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $487 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +6.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 4.2% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Lithgow - Mudgee | $522 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Lithgow - Mudgee, over 12 months | +4.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Central West | $514 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Central West, over 12 months | +6.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional NSW | $580 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional NSW, over 12 months | +6.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| 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 107 tracked applications: 26 approved, 35 under assessment, 46 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 10 projects in Lithgow Surrounds (2 under construction) and 39 more in the surrounding area.
The Wallerawang 9 Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is a utility-scale project located on 20 hectares of the decommissioned Wallerawang Power Station site near Lithgow in Central West NSW.
Greenspot's redevelopment of the former Wallerawang Power Station site near Lithgow, NSW. A State Assessed Rezoning Proposal over about 620 hectares, for around 1,200 homes and 3,500 jobs, was on public exhibition from 28 July to 25 August 2026.
The Great Western Battery is a 330 MW / 3,500 MWh grid-scale battery energy storage system by Neoen located in the Lithgow region of NSW, north of Wallerawang. It will provide dispatchable energy and grid stabilization to support the state's transition to renewable energy and is expected to be one of the largest in Australia.
EnergyAustralia's Mt Piper Battery Energy Storage System is a 500 MW / 2000 MWh grid-scale battery adjacent to the Mt Piper Power Station near Lithgow. The project received NSW planning approval in November 2024. A final investment decision is targeted for mid-2026, with construction planned for 2027 to 2028, and operational commencement expected in 2029.
Sidey Place is a strata community of 12 new 2 and 3-bedroom homes in duplex arrangements, developed by Kirana Property. Located in the newer part of Wallerawang, it aims to offer an affordable housing option for the Lithgow area, with premium finishes, large open landscaped spaces, and private patios and courtyards.
The Foundations Portland is a landmark adaptive reuse and regeneration project transforming the heritage-listed Portland Cement Works into a regional cultural and residential hub. The 86-hectare masterplanned site features the iconic Guido van Helten silo murals, artisan retail, and event spaces.
This project involves the construction and operation of approximately 8 km of new 330 kV transmission line between the Mount Piper and Wallerawang 330 kV substations.
A 200 MW wind generation project with up to 20 turbines and a 100 MW / 600 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS), capable of powering approximately 115,000 homes annually.
McKanes Bridge is a heritage-listed McDonald type timber truss bridge, 55 m long, 5.5 m wide, with two 90' (27.43 m) spans, supported by masonry abutments and a central concrete pier (replaced 1987). It is the longest span McDonald truss surviving in NSW, listed on State Heritage Register (SHR 01473), and significant for transport and technology themes.
A proposed pumped hydro energy storage and generation project near Lithgow, NSW, using Lake Lyell as the lower reservoir with a new upper reservoir, underground generation infrastructure and a grid connection.
The Bowenfels rail viaducts are a series of heritage-listed railway viaducts and bridges over Farmers Creek on the Main Western Line at Bowenfels, designed in two stages (1870 by John Whitton and 1921 by New South Wales Government Railways engineering staff), built from 1870 to 1921.
Upgrade of the signalling system with a new computer-based interlocking system to increase network capacity, meet operational requirements for new trains, and improve reliability and safety. Resignalling work at Lithgow is underway and will take up to three years to complete.
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 28 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 5, 2027 9, 2028 3, 2029 3, 2030 4, 2031 1, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 1. 9 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 107 substantial development applications lodged in and around Lithgow Surrounds over the past 5 years, 79 in the last 12 months; 35 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 3, 2022 13, 2023 4, 2024 6, 2025 3, 2026 (to Oct) 78.
Key application 38 Williwa Street, Portland Mixed Use | $6m Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 107 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 79 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 4.0 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 51st percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 33 | ABS building approvals | 45th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 26 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 35 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 include: Wallerawang 9 Battery Energy Storage System (Planning); Great Western Battery (Approved); Former Wallerawang Power Station Redevelopment (Planning); Mt Piper Battery Energy Storage System (Approved); and Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro Energy Storage (Under Assessment). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 spans multiple sectors including Energy, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Transport & Logistics, among others.
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On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Lithgow Surrounds compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 area has seen 47 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Lithgow Surrounds SA2's current population of 8,632 has been supported by 33 approvals on average over recent years.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Lithgow Surrounds SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 33, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 has grown by approximately 90 people, while 167 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.5 people added for each new dwelling approval. This low ratio indicates housing supply is outpacing population growth, potentially creating market oversupply.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Lithgow Surrounds reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 8,632 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +2.2% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 3 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 14th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 8,448 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 184 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 2,514.07 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 was estimated to be approximately 8,632 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 8,544 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The lithgow surrounds sa2 has added approximately 184 people and shown a 2.18% increase from the 8,448 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is estimated at 3 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.2% per annum.
Population growth in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (80.4%), Natural increase (19.6%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 80.4% of overall population gains.
Lithgow Surrounds hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 47 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 84th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 26.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 14.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 20.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 47.9% | 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 | 47 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 10.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 12.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 8.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 11.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 16.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 15.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 9.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 at 47 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 47 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 47 years as at August 2026, Lithgow Surrounds is 4 years older than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 9 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 16.1% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 8.9% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional NSW. The most under-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (1.8% vs 2.9%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 14.0% of the population in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 26.1% of the population in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 as at August 2026.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $56,178 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 37th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $68,485 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,393 | 2021 Census, weekly | 28th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $671 | 2021 Census, weekly | 22nd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 17.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,862 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 30.6% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is approximately $59,762. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $56,178.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is approximately $72,854. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $68,485.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is approximately $59,762 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $56,178 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is approximately $72,854 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $68,485 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Lithgow Surrounds SA2's households (~29.3% / 930 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.3% 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 Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is $1,393/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is $1,862/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is $671/wk.
The Lithgow Surrounds SA2's income level is below the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Lithgow Surrounds SA2's median income among taxpayers is $56,178 and the average income stands at $68,485, 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 $59,762 (median) and $72,854 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is $5,300 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The lithgow surrounds sa2's disposable income is $5,300 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The employment landscape in Lithgow Surrounds presents a mixed picture: unemployment remains low at 3.4%, yet recent job losses have affected its comparative national standing.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 62.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 4,436 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 7,716 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 4,591 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 has approximately 4,436 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.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 stands at 3.4%, which is 0.8 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 Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (11.8% of employment), public administration & safety (9.8%), and construction (9.2%). The relatively diverse employment base, with the top three sectors comprising 30.8% of jobs, provides economic resilience. Other significant employers include education & training and retail trade.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Lithgow 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 Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is 62.0%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate leading the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional NSW.
The lithgow surrounds sa2 shows notable specialisation in mining, which employs 7.7% of the local workforce compared to 2.5% across Regional NSW. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 3.1, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The lithgow surrounds 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 11.8% growth, ranking 6th out of 37 regions nationally.
Lithgow 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 | 10.7% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.1% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 15.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 34.5% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.9% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.1% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 39.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 27.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 2.6% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 10.5% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 8.4% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
15.7% of people aged 15 and over in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
39.7% of people aged 15 and over in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The lithgow surrounds sa2 ranks in the 22th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 are: Certificate (34.5%), Bachelor Degree (10.7%), Advanced Diploma (10.1%).
27.7% of the population in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 10.5% in primary school, 8.4% in secondary school, 2.6% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is 938, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 8 schools within the Lithgow Surrounds SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 492 students.
The lithgow surrounds sa2 includes 7 primary schools, 1 combined school.
Lithgow Surrounds features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few group households, with an average household size in line with Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 27.4% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 27.1% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 32.4% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 10.4% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 3,169 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 3,238 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 70.8% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.9 per family | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 had 3,169 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 2.2% to an estimated 3,238 households today.
The average household size in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 70.8% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (27.4%), group households (1.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,244 family households, couples with children account for 27.1% of all households, couples without children at home 32.4%, and single parent families 10.4%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 have an average of 1.9 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 48.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 32.2% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 27.4% of all households in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2, similar to the average for Regional NSW of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 1.8% of households, below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Lithgow Surrounds is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 10.3% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 3.8% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 96.2% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 89.3% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 89.7% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 4.7% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
Lithgow Surrounds was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 89.3% of its population being citizens, 89.7% born in Australia, and 96.2% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Lithgow Surrounds was found to be Christianity, which makes up 57.6% of people in Lithgow Surrounds. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Lithgow Surrounds are English, comprising 32.3% of the population, Australian, comprising 30.6% of the population, and Irish, comprising 9.3% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Australian Aboriginal is notably overrepresented at 4.7% of Lithgow Surrounds (vs 4.6% across Regional NSW), Scottish at 8.5% (vs 8.0%) and Welsh at 0.6% (vs 0.5%).
10.3% of the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
3.8% of the population in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
4.7% of the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
89.3% of the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Lithgow 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 | 15.4% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 47.9% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 97.1% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,517 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 30th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 36.7% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $270 | 2021 Census, weekly | 17th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 19.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 37th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 25.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 59th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Lithgow Surrounds SA2, 47.9% of homes are owned outright, 36.7% are owned with a mortgage, and 15.4% are rented.
According to the latest data, 97.1% of dwellings in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 are houses.
In the Lithgow Surrounds SA2, 0.1% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 1.5% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 stands at 47.9%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is $1,517, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is $736, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Lithgow Surrounds SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 25.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 19.4% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 25.1% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 19.4% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 consists of 97.1% detached houses, 1.5% semi-detached dwellings, 0.1% apartments, and 1.3% other dwelling types.
Housing in Lithgow Surrounds consumes approximately 12.2% of median household income ($6,032 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Lithgow Surrounds show attached dwellings contributing 0% of approvals compared to 3% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 100% of applications versus 97% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health performance in Lithgow Surrounds is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 51.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 38th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 62.9% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.3% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 71.5% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.1% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
Around 51.7% of people in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Lithgow Surrounds SA2, 6.3% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
7.9% of people in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.4% of the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.3% of people in the Lithgow Surrounds SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Lithgow Surrounds SA2, 51.7% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional NSW sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 52.2%.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 48 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 48th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 323 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 97th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 1,447 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 42nd percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 27 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 63 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.9 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 18.3% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 323 public transport stops within the Lithgow Surrounds SA2.
The Lithgow Surrounds SA2 has 1,447 weekly trips across 63 routes, averaging 206 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 1248 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 3.7 km away and the nearest child care centre 5.6 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 323 stops nearby, 1,447 weekly trips, access rating 48 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 50 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 50th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 3.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 5.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 6.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 6.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 6.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 6.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 9.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 16.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 17.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 17.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 17.7 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 38 places in Lithgow Surrounds, about 9.0 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 Lithgow Surrounds is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Lithgow 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 Lithgow Surrounds compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Lithgow Surrounds has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 47th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Lithgow Surrounds's affordable property market has recorded 183 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 75% residential, 9% commercial and 15% vacant land transactions.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Lithgow Surrounds reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Lithgow Surrounds hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
The employment landscape in Lithgow Surrounds presents a mixed picture: unemployment remains low at 3.4%, yet recent job losses have affected its comparative national standing.
Lithgow Surrounds faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Lithgow Surrounds features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few group households, with an average household size in line with Regional NSW.
Lithgow Surrounds is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
Lithgow Surrounds is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Lithgow Surrounds is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be in line with the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Lithgow Surrounds has an estimated 8,632 residents, up 2.2% since the 2021 Census, with 10 projects tracked in Lithgow 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 Lithgow Surrounds.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Oct 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Oct 2026. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (103031071). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Oct 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Lithgow 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 Lithgow 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.
