Area profile · Rest of NSW
Murwillumbah has an estimated 9,522 residents, up 0.2% since the 2021 Census, with 7 projects tracked in Murwillumbah.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Murwillumbah Statistical Area (Lv2) lies 102 kilometres south-southeast of the Brisbane CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at around 9,522 as of Aug 2026, showing minimal change since the 2021 Census count of 9,501 people. This assessment draws on the latest ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) outputs and new addresses added since the Census, which together reveal no significant movements. Development activity is very low relative to the wider region, while apartments form a strong part of the housing mix. Families tend to have above-average numbers of children, and a notable share of residents are aged 85 and over. Healthcare is a major employment base, and hospitality employment is pronounced.
Residents include a high proportion of older people, and incomes sit in the lower quartile. Population growth in the area follows a moderate expansion pattern. Set in the heart of NSW, Australia, Murwillumbah is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant arts and culture scene, and warm, welcoming community.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Murwillumbah Statistical Area (Lv2) lies 102 kilometres south-southeast of the Brisbane CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at around 9,522 as of Aug 2026, showing minimal change since the 2021 Census count of 9,501 people. This assessment draws on the latest ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) outputs and new addresses added since the Census, which together reveal no significant movements. Development activity is very low relative to the wider region, while apartments form a strong part of the housing mix. Families tend to have above-average numbers of children, and a notable share of residents are aged 85 and over. Healthcare is a major employment base, and hospitality employment is pronounced.
Residents include a high proportion of older people, and incomes sit in the lower quartile. Population growth in the area follows a moderate expansion pattern. Set in the heart of NSW, Australia, Murwillumbah is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant arts and culture scene, and warm, welcoming community.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 7,882 in 2001 and 9,510 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 9,522 (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, 12.9%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $400 - 799, 28%.
Murwillumbah ranks in the 75th percentile nationally for amenities and the 73rd for sales activity.
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 Murwillumbah is $655 a week, up 8.9% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 13% above Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.7%.
13% above Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $420 in 2017, $770 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $279 in 2017, $450 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 223 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah NSW 2484 | $880,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 22 Thomas Street, Bray Park NSW 2484 | $813,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 239 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah NSW 2484 | $1,300,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 31 Queen Street, Murwillumbah NSW 2484 | $895,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 28 Bellevue Avenue, Bray Park NSW 2484 | $845,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 2/64 James Street, Murwillumbah NSW 2484 | $820,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 7 Peter Street, Murwillumbah NSW 2484 | $1,400,000 | 24 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 16 Silkpod Avenue, Murwillumbah NSW 2484 | $1,100,000 | 24 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 25 Prince Street, Murwillumbah NSW 2484 | $775,000 | 18 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 169 Tweed Valley Way, South Murwillumbah NSW 2484 | $1,150,000 | 15 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 48 residential sales recorded since 16 Jun 2026 (the latest settled 30 Sep 2026), newest first. The median of these 48, houses and units together, was $897,500 (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 | $655 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +8.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.7% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $940k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $715k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $897,500 | Median of the 48 most recent residential sales, settled 16 Jun 2026 to 30 Sep 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $770 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +12.8% | 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, Tweed Valley | $796 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Tweed Valley, over 12 months | +7.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Richmond - Tweed | $754 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Richmond - Tweed, over 12 months | +6.5% | 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 193 tracked applications: 63 approved, 66 under assessment, 64 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 7 projects in Murwillumbah (3 under construction) and 115 more in the surrounding area.
A strategic land swap initiative by Tweed Shire Council to relocate businesses from flood-prone areas in South Murwillumbah to flood-free industrial land at Industry Central, enhancing economic resilience against future floods[cite: 1]. Infrastructure works completed in March 2025, with businesses now preparing to build and relocate[cite: 1].
Quarry Business Park is a 6.65-hectare industrial land estate in South Murwillumbah, offering 19 freehold lots ranging from 2,006sqm to 6,799sqm and zoned E4 General Industrial.
A residential estate offering 105 urban lots with panoramic views of Mount Warning and the Border Ranges, located 5 minutes from Murwillumbah town centre. Stage 1 with 36 lots completed in 2022, next phase of 35 lots scheduled for 2025, and planning for the final stage to begin in 2026.
New flood-resilient Tweed Shire Council depot at Industry Central replacing the flood-prone Buchanan Street depot. The facility includes administration offices, workshops, vehicle storage, solar power and EV charging to improve emergency response capability and operational resilience. The depot officially opened in July 2026.
Upgrades to four public schools in Murwillumbah, including refurbished classrooms, specialist spaces, libraries, canteens, and facilities, after cancelling a merger plan and returning separate identities to Murwillumbah High School, Wollumbin High School, Murwillumbah East Public School, and Murwillumbah Public School.
A purpose-built, flood-free animal management facility for impounding, sheltering, and rehoming companion animals, housing up to 80 animals (40 dogs and 40 cats) along with facilities for stockyard animals.
The revitalisation of Budd Park in Murwillumbah has transformed it into an inclusive, flood-resilient riverside park featuring accessible shelters, barbecues, picnic tables, pathways, bike racks, public art, landscaping, and improved drainage following the 2017 and 2022 floods.
A 24 km shared-use rail trail from Murwillumbah to Crabbes Creek along the former Casino-Murwillumbah railway corridor (Tweed Section). Part of the broader 132-134 km Northern Rivers Rail Trail. Features 18 restored railway bridges, 2 tunnels, accessible paths, and scenic rural views.
Slope stabilisation and pavement repair works on sections of Numinbah Road between Murwillumbah and Chillingham to improve safety and network resilience. Delivered by Tweed Shire Council under the Australian Government Roads to Recovery Program.
The Clarrie Hall Dam Raising project proposes to raise the existing dam wall by 8.5 metres to increase drinking water storage capacity from 16,000 megalitres to approximately 42,300 megalitres on Doon Doon Creek.
An eco-adventure development on farmland offering activities like zip lining, mountain biking, canyoning, and accommodations like glamping tents, eco-cabins, and an eco-lodge. Also includes a cafe and conference facility.
Proposed masterplanned coastal community on a 330-hectare greenfield site, with potential for over 1,500 residential lots to address the housing shortage in the Tweed region. The site has an existing underlying approval for large lot residential subdivision. The land was offered for sale via International Expressions of Interest by JLL.
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 64 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 7, 2026 24, 2027 13, 2028 8, 2029 3, 2030 3, 2031 0, 2032 3, 2033 1, 2034 0, 2035 2. 24 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 193 substantial development applications lodged in and around Murwillumbah over the past 5 years, 92 in the last 12 months; 66 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 5, 2022 20, 2023 18, 2024 37, 2025 24, 2026 (to Oct) 89.
Key application 220 Lundberg Drive, South Murwillumbah Industrial | $39m Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 193 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 92 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 1.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 15th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 14 | ABS building approvals | 26th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 63 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 66 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Murwillumbah SA2 include: Industry Central Land Swap (Construction); Quarry Business Park (Construction); Hundred Hills Estate (Construction); Murwillumbah Schools Upgrades (Completed); and Budd Park Revitalisation (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Murwillumbah SA2 spans multiple sectors including Environmental & Disaster Management, Business Parks & Technology Hubs, and Residential Development, among others.
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On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Murwillumbah is very low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Murwillumbah SA2 area has seen 13 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Murwillumbah SA2's current population of 9,522 has been supported by 14 approvals on average over recent years.
The Murwillumbah SA2 has seen 1.4 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 1468 people in the Murwillumbah SA2, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Murwillumbah SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 14, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the Murwillumbah SA2 has seen 68 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential 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.
Population growth drivers in Murwillumbah are slightly above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 9,522 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +0.2% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 392 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 40th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | 0.0% | 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 | 9,501 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 21 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 24.29 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Murwillumbah SA2 was estimated to be approximately 9,522 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 9,510 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The murwillumbah sa2 has added approximately 21 people and shown a 0.22% increase from the 9,501 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Murwillumbah SA2 is estimated at 392 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Murwillumbah SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.6% per annum.
Population growth in the Murwillumbah SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (85.2%), Interstate migration (14.8%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 85.2% of overall population gains.
Murwillumbah hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 46 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 81st percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 25.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 17.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 21.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 45.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 46 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 12.2% | 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 | 9.1% | 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 | 12.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 12.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 9.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Murwillumbah SA2 at 46 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 46 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 46 years as at August 2026, Murwillumbah is 3 years older than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 8 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Murwillumbah SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 45 - 54 group, making up 12.5% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Murwillumbah SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 9.1% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the Murwillumbah SA2 is broadly in line with Regional NSW.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 17.2% of the population in the Murwillumbah SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 25.1% of the population in the Murwillumbah SA2 as at August 2026.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 6% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $46,488 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 6th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $58,427 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,154 | 2021 Census, weekly | 10th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $597 | 2021 Census, weekly | 11th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 8.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,461 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 35.6% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Murwillumbah SA2 is approximately $49,454. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $46,488.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Murwillumbah SA2 is approximately $62,155. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $58,427.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Murwillumbah SA2 is approximately $49,454 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $46,488 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Murwillumbah SA2 is approximately $62,155 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $58,427 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Murwillumbah SA2's households (~28.0% / 1,027 households) is the $400 - 799 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Murwillumbah SA2 is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 28.0% 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 Murwillumbah SA2 is $1,154/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Murwillumbah SA2 is $1,461/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Murwillumbah SA2 is $597/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the Murwillumbah SA2 is lower than average on a national basis, with the median assessed at $46,488 while the average income stands at $58,427. This contrasts to Regional NSW's figures of a median income of $55,733 and an average income of $69,112. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $49,454 (median) and $62,155 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Murwillumbah SA2 is $3,968 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The murwillumbah sa2's disposable income is $3,968 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Murwillumbah has seen below average employment performance when compared to national benchmarks.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 4.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 55.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 4,193 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 10,100 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 4,398 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Murwillumbah SA2 has approximately 4,193 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.7%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Murwillumbah SA2 stands at 4.7%, which is 0.5 percentage points above Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Murwillumbah SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (18.0% of employment), retail trade (11.1%), and education & training (10.5%). Other significant employers include construction and accommodation & food.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Murwillumbah SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Murwillumbah SA2 is 55.5%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The murwillumbah sa2 shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 9.1% of the local workforce compared to 7.8% across Regional NSW. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector.
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The murwillumbah sa2's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 7.7% growth, ranking 9th out of 37 regions nationally.
Educational attainment in Murwillumbah sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 13.8% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.3% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 19.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 30.5% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.5% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.4% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 39.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 30.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.3% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 11.3% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 9.1% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
19.6% of people aged 15 and over in the Murwillumbah SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
39.5% of people aged 15 and over in the Murwillumbah SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The murwillumbah sa2 ranks in the 49th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Murwillumbah SA2 are: Certificate (30.5%), Bachelor Degree (13.8%), Advanced Diploma (10.4%).
30.1% of the population in the Murwillumbah SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 11.3% in primary school, 9.1% in secondary school, 3.3% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Murwillumbah SA2 is 1012, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 10 schools within the Murwillumbah SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,937 students.
The murwillumbah sa2 includes 5 primary schools, 3 secondary schools, 2 combined schools.
Murwillumbah features high concentrations of single parent families and lone person households but relatively few family 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 | 31.0% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 24.1% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 24.6% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 16.2% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.1% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 3,667 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 3,675 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 65.9% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.9 per family | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Murwillumbah SA2 had 3,667 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 3,675 households today.
The average household size in the Murwillumbah 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 65.9% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (31.0%), group households (3.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,417 family households, couples with children account for 24.1% of all households, couples without children at home 24.6%, and single parent families 16.2%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Murwillumbah SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Murwillumbah 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 39.4% of the adult population are currently married, while 34.7% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 31.0% of all households in the Murwillumbah 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 3.1% of households, slightly below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%.
Murwillumbah 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 | 13.5% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 5.2% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 94.8% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 89.6% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 86.5% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 2.6% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
Murwillumbah was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 89.6% of its population being citizens, 86.5% born in Australia, and 94.8% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Murwillumbah was found to be Christianity, which makes up 48.4% of people in Murwillumbah. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Other, which comprises 1.6% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Murwillumbah are English, comprising 32.0% of the population, Australian, comprising 28.3% of the population, and Irish, comprising 11.1% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Scottish is notably overrepresented at 9.0% of Murwillumbah (vs 8.0% across Regional NSW), French at 0.7% (vs 0.4%) and Australian Aboriginal at 2.6% (vs 4.6%).
13.5% of the Murwillumbah SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
5.2% of the population in the Murwillumbah SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
2.6% of the Murwillumbah SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
89.6% of the Murwillumbah SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Murwillumbah is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 30.8% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 36.6% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 78.9% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,733 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 32.6% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 6.3% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $350 | 2021 Census, weekly | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 30.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 96th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 34.7% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 97th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Murwillumbah SA2, 36.6% of homes are owned outright, 32.6% are owned with a mortgage, and 30.8% are rented.
According to the latest data, 78.9% of dwellings in the Murwillumbah SA2 are houses.
In the Murwillumbah SA2, 14.0% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 6.3% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Murwillumbah SA2 stands at 36.6%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Murwillumbah SA2 is $1,733, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Murwillumbah SA2 is $1,032, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Murwillumbah SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 34.7% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 30.3% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Murwillumbah SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Murwillumbah SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 34.7% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 30.3% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Murwillumbah SA2 consists of 78.9% detached houses, 6.3% semi-detached dwellings, 14.0% apartments, and 0.8% other dwelling types.
Housing in Murwillumbah consumes approximately 20.6% of median household income ($4,997 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Murwillumbah show attached dwellings contributing 33% of approvals compared to 21% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 67% of applications versus 79% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health performance in Murwillumbah is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 47.2% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 11th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 62.3% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 8.5% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 70.8% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
Around 47.2% of people in the Murwillumbah SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Murwillumbah SA2, 8.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
8.5% of people in the Murwillumbah SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.1% of the Murwillumbah SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.4% of people in the Murwillumbah SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Murwillumbah SA2, 47.2% 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 good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 63 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 244 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 95th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 1,298 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 39th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 39 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 67 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.2 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 11.3% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 244 public transport stops within the Murwillumbah SA2.
The Murwillumbah SA2 has 1,298 weekly trips across 67 routes, averaging 185 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 120 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 625 m away and the nearest child care centre 768 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 244 stops nearby, 1,298 weekly trips, access rating 63 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 75 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 75th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 625 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 768 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 966 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest GP | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 2.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 20.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 3 long day care centres with 221 places in Murwillumbah, about 2.2 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 Murwillumbah 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 Murwillumbah.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Murwillumbah is very low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Murwillumbah ranks in the 48th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Murwillumbah's resilient property market has recorded 241 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 84% residential, 11% commercial and 5% vacant land transactions.
Population growth drivers in Murwillumbah are slightly above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium term trends.
Murwillumbah hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 6% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
Murwillumbah has seen below average employment performance when compared to national benchmarks.
Educational attainment in Murwillumbah sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
Murwillumbah features high concentrations of single parent families and lone person households but relatively few family households, with an average household size in line with Regional NSW.
Murwillumbah is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
Murwillumbah is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
Health performance in Murwillumbah is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Murwillumbah has an estimated 9,522 residents, up 0.2% since the 2021 Census, with 7 projects tracked in Murwillumbah.
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 Murwillumbah.
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 Aug 2026. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (112031251). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Murwillumbah 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 Murwillumbah 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.
