Area profile · Rest of NSW
Nambucca Heads has an estimated 7,490 residents, up 5.3% since the 2021 Census, with 5 projects tracked in Nambucca Heads.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Nambucca Heads Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 352 kilometres south from Brisbane CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 7,490 as of Aug 2026, compared with 7,111 people at the 2021 Census. This is an increase of 379 people (5.3%), inferred from the ABS estimated resident population of 7,304 as of June 2025 and 318 validated new addresses since the Census date. The area has strong outright home ownership, a low average household size, above-average children per family, notable representation of residents aged 85 and over and those aged 75 to 84, and a pronounced healthcare employment base. Its population includes a high proportion of retirement-aged and older residents, many living alone; education and income levels are lower, population growth is moderate, and sales volumes are significantly above average relative to population.
In NSW, Australia, Nambucca Heads is a coastal locality known for its beaches, clear waters, estuary, headlands, rivers and surrounding national parks.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Nambucca Heads Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 352 kilometres south from Brisbane CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 7,490 as of Aug 2026, compared with 7,111 people at the 2021 Census. This is an increase of 379 people (5.3%), inferred from the ABS estimated resident population of 7,304 as of June 2025 and 318 validated new addresses since the Census date. The area has strong outright home ownership, a low average household size, above-average children per family, notable representation of residents aged 85 and over and those aged 75 to 84, and a pronounced healthcare employment base. Its population includes a high proportion of retirement-aged and older residents, many living alone; education and income levels are lower, population growth is moderate, and sales volumes are significantly above average relative to population.
In NSW, Australia, Nambucca Heads is a coastal locality known for its beaches, clear waters, estuary, headlands, rivers and surrounding national parks.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 6,697 in 2001 and 7,304 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 7,490 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 65 to 74, 18.8%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $400 - 799, 37.5%.
Nambucca Heads ranks in the 82nd percentile nationally for sales activity and the 64th 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 Nambucca Heads is $509 a week, up 7.2% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 12% below Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.8%.
12% below Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $338 in 2017, $572 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $236 in 2017, $350 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 38 Alexandra Drive, Nambucca Heads NSW 2448 | $790,000 | 20 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 16 Bellenger Street, Nambucca Heads NSW 2448 | $860,000 | 19 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 1/20 The Glen, Hyland Park NSW 2448 | $638,000 | 13 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 95 Florence Wilmont Drive, Nambucca Heads NSW 2448 | $955,000 | 23 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 14 Nambucca Street, Nambucca Heads NSW 2448 | $805,000 | 22 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 10 West Street, Nambucca Heads NSW 2448 | $750,000 | 22 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 9 Glen Sheather Drive, Nambucca Heads NSW 2448 | $750,000 | 18 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 1/26 Wellington Drive, Nambucca Heads NSW 2448 | $990,000 | 16 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 22 Nelson Street, Nambucca Heads NSW 2448 | $580,000 | 16 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 2/2095 Giinagay Way, Nambucca Heads NSW 2448 | $350,000 | 11 Sep 2026 | Unit |
The 10 most recent of the 37 residential sales recorded since 12 Jun 2026 (the latest settled 20 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 37, houses and units together, was $750,000 (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 | $509 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +7.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.8% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $760k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $561k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $750,000 | Median of the 37 most recent residential sales, settled 12 Jun 2026 to 20 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $572 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +8.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $350 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | -6.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 4.1% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 3.3% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Kempsey - Nambucca | $511 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Kempsey - Nambucca, over 12 months | +6.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Mid North Coast | $558 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Mid North Coast, over 12 months | +5.7% | 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 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 179 tracked applications: 68 approved, 27 under assessment, 84 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Nambucca Heads, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 5 projects in Nambucca Heads (2 under construction) and 56 more in the surrounding area.
Five three-bedroom luxury apartments offering breathtaking views of the Nambucca River and coastline, with high-end finishes, spacious open-plan layouts, secure access, internal lift to all levels, and two undercover parking spaces per apartment.
Over 50s land lease community by Lincoln Place with no entry, exit or deferred management fees. Amenities include community hall, BBQ area and access to medical services and supermarkets. Ongoing home releases; new homes coming soon with enquiries handled by the on-site team.
Improvements to the foreshore walk from the Visitor Information Centre to the V-Wall, including boardwalk replacement, signage, and art installations to promote cultural, historical, and environmental awareness of the Nambucca River. The project includes the addition of public art elements as part of ongoing enhancements.
Construction of a 180-metre coastal protection wall including 40 metres of bleacher steps, new pedestrian footpath, beach stairs, ramps, shower, and viewing platform at Main Beach, Nambucca Heads, to protect against coastal erosion and enhance public amenities.
State-of-the-art facility providing greater access to skills training and employment outcomes through a mix of online, face-to-face, and blended learning options. The CLC offers digital technologies like simulations and virtual learning experiences, and a range of courses including education support, business, visitor information services, and hospitality.
The Valla Urban Growth Area is a long-planned mixed-use precinct near the Pacific Highway at Valla, intended to address residential and industrial land shortages on the NSW Mid North Coast. Stage One is under construction and will deliver 14 fully serviced industrial lots, with 13 lots expected to be released from mid to late 2026.
Proposed adaptive re-use of the former Macksville Community Health Centre into tourism and visitor accommodation. DA2023/067 (Romsen Pty Ltd) seeks to convert the existing low-rise hospital buildings into 80 self-contained serviced apartments and a 9-room staff residence, with a new 25 m swimming pool, private restaurant, gym conversion, multi-purpose…
Black Wattle Estate is a six stage master planned residential land subdivision within the South Urunga Development Precinct, delivering about 320 housing lots from roughly 600 sqm up to 1,450 sqm. Stage 1 civil works and registration are complete with most lots sold, while later stages will add local parks, walking and cycle paths and bushland buffers.
A major $38 million sewerage infrastructure project expanding the network to Mylestom, Repton, and Raleigh. The project involves a completed upgrade to the Urunga Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP), doubling its capacity to 10,000 equivalent persons.
Full replacement of the historic Urunga Boardwalk, part of the wider Urunga Precinct Revitalisation, following flood damage to the original structure.
A proposed master-planned residential community by Allam Property Group across approximately 100 hectares north and south of Ocean Avenue in Stuarts Point.
Affordable housing complex providing 23 one-bedroom apartments for women over 55 at risk of homelessness. The project was officially opened in December 2024 and was delivered through RFBI's subsidiary, Bellorana, with $10 million in combined funding from the NSW and Australian governments. All 23 apartments were tenanted before the official opening.
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 24 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 9, 2027 7, 2028 1, 2029 0, 2030 3, 2031 2, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 1. 19 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 179 substantial development applications lodged in and around Nambucca Heads over the past 5 years, 124 in the last 12 months; 27 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 2, 2022 16, 2023 13, 2024 15, 2025 9, 2026 (to Nov) 124.
Key application Alexandra Drive, Nambucca Heads Mixed Use | $28m
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 179 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 124 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 7.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 77th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 53 | ABS building approvals | 61st percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 68 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 27 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Nambucca Heads SA2 include: Vista Apartments (Construction); Nambucca Heads Lifestyle Estate (Construction); Nambucca River Foreshore Walk and Cultural Way (Completed); Main Beach Protective Seawall and Bleachers (Completed); and Valla Urban Growth Area (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Nambucca Heads SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Tourism, and Environmental & Disaster Management, among others.
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates targeted investment in infrastructure improvements that will benefit the local area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the Nambucca Heads SA2 vicinity.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Nambucca Heads SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 33rd percentile.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Nambucca Heads when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Nambucca Heads SA2 area has seen 125 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Nambucca Heads SA2's current population of 7,490 has been supported by 53 approvals on average over recent years.
The Nambucca Heads SA2 has seen 7.4 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 234 people in the Nambucca Heads SA2, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Nambucca Heads SA2's approval levels have been slightly above the yearly average of 53, showing modest growth in recent years.
Over the past five years, the population in the Nambucca Heads SA2 has grown by approximately 221 people, while 266 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.8 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 Nambucca Heads reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 7,490 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +5.3% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Population density | 241 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 35th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.6% | 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 | 7,111 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 379 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 31.05 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Nambucca Heads SA2 was estimated to be approximately 7,490 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 7,304 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The nambucca heads sa2 has added approximately 379 people and shown a 5.33% increase from the 7,111 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Nambucca Heads SA2 is estimated at 241 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Nambucca Heads SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.6% per annum.
Population growth in the Nambucca Heads SA2 is driven by: Interstate migration (84.3%), Overseas migration (15.7%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 84.3% of overall population gains.
Nambucca Heads ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 56 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 97th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 37.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 13.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 16.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 39.9% | 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 | 56 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 9.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 9.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 7.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 8.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 9.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 13.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 18.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 12.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 5.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Nambucca Heads SA2 at 56 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 56 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 56 years as at August 2026, Nambucca Heads is 13 years older than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 18 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Nambucca Heads SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 18.8% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Nambucca Heads SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 7.3% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Nambucca Heads SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional NSW. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (5.5% vs 2.9%) and 75-84 year-olds (12.9% vs 8.2%). The most under-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (7.3% vs 11.5%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 13.7% of the population in the Nambucca Heads SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 37.2% of the population in the Nambucca Heads SA2 as at August 2026.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 3% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $45,452 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 5th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $60,343 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $850 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Census personal income / week | $501 | 2021 Census, weekly | 3rd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 5.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,244 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 47.7% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Nambucca Heads SA2 is approximately $48,352. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $45,452.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Nambucca Heads SA2 is approximately $64,193. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $60,343.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Nambucca Heads SA2 is approximately $48,352 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $45,452 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Nambucca Heads SA2 is approximately $64,193 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $60,343 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Nambucca Heads SA2's households (~37.5% / 1,178 households) is the $400 - 799 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Nambucca Heads SA2 is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 37.5% 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 Nambucca Heads SA2 is $850/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Nambucca Heads SA2 is $1,244/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Nambucca Heads SA2 is $501/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Nambucca Heads SA2's median income among taxpayers is $45,452, with an average of $60,343. This is below the national average, and compares to Regional NSW's median of $55,733 and average of $69,112. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $48,352 (median) and $64,193 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Nambucca Heads SA2 is $3,028 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The nambucca heads sa2's disposable income is $3,028 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Nambucca Heads face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 5% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 9.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 41.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,336 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 7,230 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,587 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Nambucca Heads SA2 has approximately 2,336 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 9.7%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Nambucca Heads SA2 stands at 9.7%, which is 5.6 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 Nambucca Heads SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (20.1% of employment), accommodation & food (13.9%), and retail trade (12.4%). Other significant employers include construction and education & training.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Nambucca Heads 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 Nambucca Heads SA2 is 41.3%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. The relatively low participation rate may indicate limited job opportunities or demographic factors affecting workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The nambucca heads sa2 shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 13.9% of the local workforce compared to 7.8% across Regional NSW. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The nambucca heads sa2's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 7.7% growth, ranking 9th out of 37 regions nationally.
Nambucca Heads 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 | 9.5% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 13.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 31.7% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.1% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.9% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 44.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 24.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 8.8% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.7% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
13.9% of people aged 15 and over in the Nambucca Heads SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
44.4% of people aged 15 and over in the Nambucca Heads SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The nambucca heads sa2 ranks in the 14th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Nambucca Heads SA2 are: Certificate (31.7%), Advanced Diploma (9.9%), Bachelor Degree (9.5%).
24.2% of the population in the Nambucca Heads SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.8% in primary school, 7.7% in secondary school, 1.7% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Nambucca Heads SA2 is 936, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 4 schools within the Nambucca Heads SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,229 students.
The nambucca heads sa2 includes 2 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 1 combined school.
Nambucca Heads features high concentrations of lone person households but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.0 people | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 41.6% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 14.0% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 27.8% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 12.2% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 3,142 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 3,309 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 55.3% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.0 per family | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Nambucca Heads SA2 had 3,142 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 5.3% to an estimated 3,309 households today.
The average household size in the Nambucca Heads SA2 is 2.0 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 55.3% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (41.6%), group households (3.2%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,738 family households, couples with children account for 14.0% of all households, couples without children at home 27.8%, and single parent families 12.2%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Nambucca Heads SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 41.6% (versus 27.9% in Regional NSW). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 55.3% compared to 68.8% in Regional NSW. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Nambucca Heads SA2 have an average of 2.0 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 36.9% 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 41.6% of all households in the Nambucca Heads SA2, higher than the average for Regional NSW of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.2% of households, in line with the Regional NSW average of 3.3%.
Nambucca Heads 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 | 12.7% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 3.6% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 96.4% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 88.7% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 87.3% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 6.9% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
Nambucca Heads was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 88.7% of its population being citizens, 87.3% born in Australia, and 96.4% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Nambucca Heads was found to be Christianity, which makes up 53.3% of people in Nambucca Heads. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 0.2% of the population, compared to 0.1% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Nambucca Heads are English, comprising 32.0% of the population, Australian, comprising 29.9% of the population, and Irish, comprising 8.9% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Australian Aboriginal is notably overrepresented at 6.9% of Nambucca Heads (vs 4.6% across Regional NSW), Scottish at 8.4% (vs 8.0%) and French at 0.5% (vs 0.4%).
12.7% of the Nambucca Heads SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
3.6% of the population in the Nambucca Heads SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
6.9% of the Nambucca Heads SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
88.7% of the Nambucca Heads SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Nambucca Heads 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 | 34.3% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 48.0% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 74.7% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,300 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 18th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 17.8% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 12.4% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $285 | 2021 Census, weekly | 21st percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 33.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 98th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 35.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 97th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the Nambucca Heads SA2, 48.0% of homes are owned outright, 17.8% are owned with a mortgage, and 34.3% are rented.
According to the latest data, 74.7% of dwellings in the Nambucca Heads SA2 are houses.
In the Nambucca Heads SA2, 10.5% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 12.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Nambucca Heads SA2 stands at 48.0%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Nambucca Heads SA2 is $1,300, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Nambucca Heads SA2 is $655, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Nambucca Heads SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 35.3% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 33.5% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Nambucca Heads SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Nambucca Heads SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 35.3% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 33.5% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Nambucca Heads SA2 consists of 74.7% detached houses, 12.4% semi-detached dwellings, 10.5% apartments, and 2.4% other dwelling types.
Housing in Nambucca Heads consumes approximately 17.8% of median household income ($3,680 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Nambucca Heads show attached dwellings contributing 11% of approvals compared to 25% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 89% of applications versus 75% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health performance in Nambucca Heads is a key challenge relative to locations nationally with a range of health conditions having marked impacts on both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 48.0% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 16th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 51.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Need help with daily activities | 11.9% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 66.0% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 3.9% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
Around 48.0% of people in the Nambucca Heads SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Nambucca Heads SA2, 11.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
7.7% of people in the Nambucca Heads SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.9% of the Nambucca Heads SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
6.4% of people in the Nambucca Heads SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Nambucca Heads SA2, 48.0% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional NSW sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 52.2%.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 35 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 35th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 47 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 40th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 370 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 21st percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 157 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 30 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 0.9 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 10.0% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 47 public transport stops within the Nambucca Heads SA2.
The Nambucca Heads SA2 has 370 weekly trips across 30 routes, averaging 52 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 295 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 848 m away and the nearest GP 994 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 47 stops nearby, 370 weekly trips, access rating 35 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 64 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 64th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 848 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 994 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest school | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 10.5 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 39 places in Nambucca Heads, about 8.9 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 Nambucca Heads 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 Nambucca Heads.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Nambucca Heads when compared nationally.
Nambucca Heads has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 33rd percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Nambucca Heads's affordable property market has recorded 213 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 74% residential, 8% commercial and 19% vacant land transactions.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Nambucca Heads reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Nambucca Heads ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 3% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Nambucca Heads face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 5% of areas assessed nationally.
Nambucca Heads faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Nambucca Heads features high concentrations of lone person households but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
Nambucca Heads is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
Nambucca Heads is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Nambucca Heads is a key challenge relative to locations nationally with a range of health conditions having marked impacts on both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Nambucca Heads has an estimated 7,490 residents, up 5.3% since the 2021 Census, with 5 projects tracked in Nambucca Heads.
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 Nambucca Heads.
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 Aug 2026. Housing 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 (108021158). 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, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Nambucca Heads 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 Nambucca Heads 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.
