Chart Color Schemes
This analysis uses ABS Statistical Areas Level 2 (SA2) boundaries, which can materially differ from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) even when sharing similar names.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (e.g., census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb/locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.
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ABS ERP | -- people | --
2021 Census | -- people
Sales Activity
Curious about local property values? Filter the chart to assess the volume and appreciation (including resales) trends and regional comparisons, or scroll to the map below view this information at an individual property level.
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Sales Detail
What it costs to rent in Maclean - Yamba - Iluka
Median weekly rents, year-on-year movement and bond-lodgement activity for Maclean - Yamba - Iluka (2463). Sourced from the NSW Rental Bond Board, DCJ Family & Community Services.
Median rent
$475
per week · Q4 2025
YoY change
▲+13.9%
vs same quarter last year
Active bonds
≈4
est. · currently held
New bonds
≈0
est. · this quarter
Latest Quarter Breakdown · Q4 2025
| Dwelling | Bedrooms | Median $/wk | Active bonds | New bonds (Qtr) | YoY | Quality |
|---|
SOURCE: NSW Rental Bond Board (DCJ Family & Community Services), processed by AreaSearch. Imputed values are flagged. Latest publication:
Population
Population growth drivers in Maclean - Yamba - Iluka are slightly above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium term trends
Maclean-Yamba-Iluka's population is approximately 18,872 as of May 2026. This figure represents an increase of 1,339 people since the 2021 Census, which recorded a population of 17,533. The increase is inferred from ABS data showing an estimated resident population of 18,562 in June 2025 and an additional 1,040 validated new addresses since the Census date. This results in a population density ratio of 26 persons per square kilometer. Maclean-Yamba-Iluka's population growth of 7.6% since the 2021 census exceeds the SA4 region's growth rate of 4.6%, and that of the Rest of NSW, indicating significant growth in the area. Interstate migration contributed approximately 80.3% of overall population gains during recent periods.
AreaSearch uses ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area released in 2024 with a base year of 2022, and NSW State Government's SA2 level projections released in 2022 with a base year of 2021 for areas not covered by the former data. Growth rates by age group from these aggregations are applied to all areas for years 2032 to 2041. Based on projected demographic shifts, the area is expected to experience population growth just below the median of regional areas across Australia, with an increase of 1,909 persons anticipated by 2041, reflecting an overall increase of approximately 8.5% over the 16-year period.
Frequently Asked Questions - Population
Development
AreaSearch assessment of residential development activity positions Maclean - Yamba - Iluka among the top 25% of areas assessed nationwide
Maclean-Yamba-Iluka recorded approximately 181 residential property approvals annually over the past five financial years, totalling 909 homes. As of FY26257 approvals have been recorded. On average, 1.3 new residents arrived per new home each year between FY21 and FY25. New dwellings were developed at an average cost of $312,000.
This financial year has seen $15.0 million in commercial approvals. Compared to the rest of NSW, Maclean-Yamba-Iluka has 85.0% more construction activity per person. Recent construction comprises 87.0% detached houses and 13.0% medium and high-density housing. The area has approximately 106 people per dwelling approval, indicating an expanding market.
By 2041, the population is forecast to gain 1,599 residents. Current construction levels should meet demand adequately, creating favourable conditions for buyers while potentially enabling growth that exceeds current forecasts.
Frequently Asked Questions - Development
Development applications around Maclean - Yamba - Iluka
Loading development applications…
| Lodged | Address | Description | Type | Distance | Status |
|---|
SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.
Infrastructure
Maclean - Yamba - Iluka has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 43rdth percentile nationally
Changes to local infrastructure significantly influence an area's performance. AreaSearch has identified 27 projects likely impacting the area. Notable projects include Clifton Yamba, West Yamba Shopping Centre, Yamba Library and Community Centre (Treelands Drive Community Hub), and Yamba Wooli Road Bridge Replacement. Below is a list detailing those most relevant.
Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.
INFRASTRUCTURE SEARCH
Denotes AI-based impression for illustrative purposes only, not to be taken as definitive under any circumstances. Please follow links and conduct other investigations from the project's source for actual imagery. Developers and project owners wishing us to use original imagery please Contact Us and we will do so.
Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure
West Yamba Shopping Centre
A planned neighbourhood centre situated within the West Yamba Urban Release Area to support significant local residential growth. The development control plan (DCP) designates the corner of Miles Street and Carrs Drive for local services including a potential corner store, cafe, and childcare centre. As of early 2026, while the zoning and strategic planning for the hub are established, no formal development application has been lodged for the specific retail structures, as focus remains on the surrounding subdivision and infrastructure works.
Yamba Library and Community Centre (Treelands Drive Community Hub)
Delivery of a modern community hub led by Clarence Valley Council and built by Bennett Constructions. The facility includes a library twice the previous size, art and gallery space, youth area, visitor information hub, commercial and community kitchen, flexible meeting rooms, accessible amenities including a Changing Places facility, indoor courtyard and expanded parking. Funded by the Australian and NSW Governments through the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery program with Council contribution.
Palm Lake Resort Yamba Cove
An exclusive over-50s lifestyle community featuring 78 premium double-storey residences with modern coastal aesthetic inspired by Malibu beach house style. The resort features the state-of-the-art Vantage Country Club with world-class facilities including cinema, Milon gymnasium, spa, sauna, steam room, Pilates studio, and social spaces. This boutique development represents the pinnacle of luxury coastal living by Palm Lake Group.
Yamba Marina Tourist Facility
Development of over 2.5 hectares for a major tourist destination including a 100-room hotel and stand-alone accommodation, plus expanded berthing for super-yachts along the Clarence River.
Yamba Quays Canal Estate Development
Exceptional waterfront canal estate development with 136 lots, 107 with water frontage providing direct boat access to Clarence River and Pacific Ocean. One of the last canal waterfront developments in NSW. Stage 4 civil works commencing late 2023, Stage 3A lots currently selling.
Yamba Sewerage Treatment Plant Upgrade
Major upgrade to sewerage treatment capacity and technology to support population growth and environmental standards. Includes new treatment processes and expanded infrastructure.
Palm Lake Resort Yamba
Over-50s lifestyle resort operated by Palm Lake Group, offering 2 and 3 bedroom homes with resort-style amenities including clubhouse, lawn bowls, pool, library, BBQ areas, caravan and boat storage. Located near the Clarence River with security gating and resident social groups.
Yamba Heights Residential Subdivision
New residential subdivision creating 89 lots on elevated land with ocean and river views. Development includes road infrastructure, stormwater management and landscaping. Premium residential opportunity.
Employment
Employment performance in Maclean - Yamba - Iluka has been broadly consistent with national averages
Maclean-Yamba-Iluka has a skilled workforce with essential services sectors well-represented. The unemployment rate was 3.5% as of December 2021. Employment growth over the past year was estimated at 3.1%.
As of December 2025, there are 6,631 residents in work and the unemployment rate is 0.4% below Regional NSW's rate of 3.9%. Workforce participation is lower at 43.4%, compared to Regional NSW's 60.5%. According to Census responses, 13.5% of residents work from home. Dominant employment sectors include health care & social assistance, retail trade, and accommodation & food.
The area has a high specialization in accommodation & food, with an employment share of 1.5 times the regional level. Mining employs just 0.9% of local workers, below Regional NSW's 2.5%. Over the 12 months to December 2025, employment increased by 3.1%, while labour force increased by 2.7%, reducing the unemployment rate by 0.4 percentage points. In contrast, Regional NSW experienced an employment decline of 1.2% and a labour force decline of 0.8%, with a 0.4 percentage point rise in unemployment. Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment forecasts from May-25 suggest that Maclean-Yamba-Iluka's employment should increase by 6.3% over five years and 13.2% over ten years, based on industry-specific projections applied to the local employment mix.
Frequently Asked Questions - Employment
Income
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 10% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis
The Maclean-Yamba-Iluka SA2 region had a median taxpayer income of $41,638 and an average income of $52,588 in the financial year 2023, according to postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch. This is lower than the national averages, which were $52,390 for median income and $65,215 for average income in Regional NSW during the same period. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% since financial year 2023, estimated incomes as of March 2026 would be approximately $45,935 (median) and $58,015 (average). Incomes in Maclean-Yamba-Iluka were between the 6th and 8th percentiles nationally according to 2021 Census figures. The largest income segment was 29.2% of residents earning $400-$799 weekly. This contrasts with the surrounding region where the $1,500-$2,999 category predominated at 29.9%. Housing affordability pressures were severe in Maclean-Yamba-Iluka, with only 84.3% of income remaining after housing costs, ranking at the 8th percentile nationally.
Frequently Asked Questions - Income
Housing
Maclean - Yamba - Iluka is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership
In Maclean-Yamba-Iluka, as per the latest Census evaluation, 82.8% of dwellings were houses, with the remaining 17.2% comprising semi-detached units, apartments, and other dwelling types. This distribution is similar to Regional NSW's 82.6% houses and 17.4% other dwellings. Home ownership in Maclean-Yamba-Iluka stood at 52.4%, with mortgaged properties at 23.1% and rented dwellings at 24.5%. The median monthly mortgage repayment was $1,517, lower than Regional NSW's average of $1,733. The median weekly rent in the area was $360, compared to Regional NSW's $330. Nationally, Maclean-Yamba-Iluka's median mortgage repayments were significantly lower at $1,517 versus Australia's $1,863 average, and rents were also lower at $360 against the national figure of $375.
Frequently Asked Questions - Housing
Household Composition
Maclean - Yamba - Iluka has a typical household mix, with a lower-than-average median household size
Family households account for 67.7% of all households, including 19.2% that are couples with children, 37.8% that are couples without children, and 9.8% that are single parent families. Non-family households make up the remaining 32.3%, with lone person households at 29.2% and group households comprising 3.2% of the total. The median household size is 2.2 people, which is smaller than the Regional NSW average of 2.4.
Frequently Asked Questions - Households
Local Schools & Education
Educational outcomes in Maclean - Yamba - Iluka fall within the lower quartile nationally, indicating opportunities for improvement in qualification attainment
The area's university qualification rate is 17.6%, significantly lower than the NSW average of 32.2%. This disparity presents both a challenge and an opportunity for targeted educational initiatives. Bachelor degrees are most prevalent at 12.6%, followed by postgraduate qualifications (2.8%) and graduate diplomas (2.2%). Trade and technical skills are prominent, with 41.4% of residents aged 15+ holding vocational credentials – advanced diplomas (10.4%) and certificates (31.0%).
A total of 22.9% of the population is actively engaged in formal education, including 8.7% in primary, 6.8% in secondary, and 1.8% in tertiary education.
Frequently Asked Questions - Education
Schools Detail
Nearby Services & Amenities
Transport
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility
Maclean-Yamba-Iluka has 177 active public transport stops offering ferry and bus services. These are covered by 58 routes providing 578 weekly passenger trips. Residents enjoy good accessibility, with an average distance of 279 meters to the nearest stop. Most residents commute outward daily using cars (90%), while 7% walk. On average, there are 1.3 vehicles per dwelling, lower than the regional norm. In 2021 Census data, 13.5% of residents worked from home, possibly due to COVID-19 conditions.
Service frequency averages 82 trips daily across all routes, translating to approximately three weekly trips per stop. The accompanying map displays the 100 nearest stops to the location's centerpoint.
Frequently Asked Questions - Transport
Transport Stops Detail
Health
Health performance in Maclean - Yamba - Iluka is well below average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts
Maclean-Yamba-Iluka faces significant health challenges, according to AreaSearch's assessment. Mortality rates and chronic condition prevalence are notable across both younger and older age cohorts. Only approximately 46% of the total population (~8,737 people) has private health cover, compared to 51.9% in Regional NSW and a national average of 55.7%.
The most prevalent medical conditions are arthritis (13.5%) and mental health issues (8.6%). However, 58.4% of residents claim to be completely clear of medical ailments, compared to 63.3% across Regional NSW. Working-age population faces notable health challenges due to elevated chronic condition rates. The area has a higher proportion of seniors aged 65 and over (35.3%, or 6,665 people) than Regional NSW (23.4%). Health outcomes among seniors present some challenges, generally in line with national rankings for the general population.
Frequently Asked Questions - Health
Cultural Diversity
Maclean - Yamba - Iluka is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics
Maclean-Yamba-Iluka has a population with 88.5% born in Australia, 91.1% being citizens, and 96.7% speaking English only at home, indicating lower cultural diversity compared to averages. Christianity is the predominant religion, comprising 55.3%, slightly below the Regional NSW average of 55.9%. The top three ancestry groups are English (33.1%), Australian (29.0%), and Scottish (10.2%).
Notably, Irish ancestry is overrepresented at 10.1% compared to 8.8% regionally, while Australian Aboriginal is underrepresented at 3.8% versus 4.6%, and German ancestry is slightly higher at 3.3% compared to 3.1%.
Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity
Age
Maclean - Yamba - Iluka ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide
The median age in Maclean-Yamba-Iluka is 54 years, which is significantly higher than Regional NSW's average of 43 years and considerably older than the national norm of 38 years. Compared to the Regional NSW average, the 65-74 age cohort is notably over-represented at 18.7% locally, while the 25-34 age group is under-represented at 6.8%. This 65-74 concentration is well above the national figure of 9.4%. Between the 2021 Census and the present, the 15 to 24 age group has grown from 7.7% to 8.8%, while the 35 to 44 cohort increased from 9.1% to 10.2%. Conversely, the 55 to 64 age group has declined from 16.4% to 14.3%, and the 45 to 54 group dropped from 11.0% to 9.9%. By 2041, Maclean-Yamba-Iluka is expected to experience notable shifts in its age composition, with the 85+ age cohort projected to expand considerably by 534 people (64%), from 832 to 1,367. Conversely, population declines are projected for the 65 to 74 and 55 to 64 age cohorts.