Area profile · Rest of NSW
Nambucca Heads Surrounds has an estimated 8,679 residents, up 7.1% since the 2021 Census, with 61 projects tracked in the area around Nambucca Heads Surrounds.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Nambucca Heads Surrounds Statistical Area (Lv2), located 355 kilometres south of the Brisbane CBD, had an estimated population of approximately 8,679 as of Aug 2026, according to AreaSearch. That figure represents an increase of 577 people (7.1%) over the 8,102 people recorded at the 2021 Census. The change is based on the ABS estimated resident population (ERP) of 8,550 as of June 2025, together with 214 validated new addresses added since the Census date. Residents are predominantly mature and retirement-aged, largely couples without children, and the area shows strong outright home ownership and a clear preference for detached housing. Families tend to have above-average numbers of children, with a notable share of residents aged 65 to 74 and an elevated proportion aged 55 to 64, alongside a pronounced agricultural employment base.
The area is framed by a picturesque coastline, pristine beaches along the Nambucca River and lush hinterland, which attract nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts to surfing, fishing and bushwalking in the surrounding national parks.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Nambucca Heads Surrounds Statistical Area (Lv2), located 355 kilometres south of the Brisbane CBD, had an estimated population of approximately 8,679 as of Aug 2026, according to AreaSearch. That figure represents an increase of 577 people (7.1%) over the 8,102 people recorded at the 2021 Census. The change is based on the ABS estimated resident population (ERP) of 8,550 as of June 2025, together with 214 validated new addresses added since the Census date. Residents are predominantly mature and retirement-aged, largely couples without children, and the area shows strong outright home ownership and a clear preference for detached housing. Families tend to have above-average numbers of children, with a notable share of residents aged 65 to 74 and an elevated proportion aged 55 to 64, alongside a pronounced agricultural employment base.
The area is framed by a picturesque coastline, pristine beaches along the Nambucca River and lush hinterland, which attract nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts to surfing, fishing and bushwalking in the surrounding national parks.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 6,713 in 2001 and 8,550 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 8,679 (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, 16.9%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $800 - 1,499, 28.5%.
Nambucca Heads Surrounds ranks in the 59th percentile nationally for population growth and the 58th for development 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 Nambucca Heads Surrounds is $552 a week, up 4.5% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 5% below Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.6%.
5% below Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses: $356 in 2017, $588 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 390 Graces Road, Argents Hill NSW 2449 | $1,350,000 | 21 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 41 Carbin Street, Bowraville NSW 2449 | $476,000 | 16 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 73 Logans Road, Valla NSW 2448 | $596,000 | 9 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 46 Pearl Circuit, Valla NSW 2448 | $1,520,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 2 Henderson Street, Valla Beach NSW 2448 | $960,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 5 Zutano Close, Valla NSW 2448 | $220,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 25 Irvines Road, Newee Creek NSW 2447 | $949,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 7 Currawong Road, Allgomera NSW 2441 | $950,000 | 18 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 152 Bellbird Road, Thumb Creek NSW 2447 | $500,000 | 18 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 28 Ironbark Road, Wirrimbi NSW 2447 | $1,260,000 | 17 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 38 residential sales recorded since 28 May 2026 (the latest settled 21 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 38, houses and units together, was $817,500 (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 | $552 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +4.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.6% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $818k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $938k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $817,500 | Median of the 38 most recent residential sales, settled 28 May 2026 to 21 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $588 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +3.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.9% | 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 | |
| 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 153 tracked applications: 27 approved, 32 under assessment, 94 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 61 projects in and around Nambucca Heads Surrounds, 21 of them under construction.
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…
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 proposed master-planned residential community by Allam Property Group across approximately 100 hectares north and south of Ocean Avenue in Stuarts Point.
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.
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 153 substantial development applications lodged in and around Nambucca Heads Surrounds over the past 5 years, 132 in the last 12 months; 32 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 2, 2022 9, 2023 4, 2024 3, 2025 3, 2026 (to Nov) 132.
Key application 80 Red Ash Road, Valla Mixed Use | $6.2m Approved
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 153 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 132 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 4.3 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 55th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 35 | ABS building approvals | 47th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 27 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 32 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 include: 14-22 Boundary Street Macksville - Serviced Apartments Conversion (Dev. Application); Valla Urban Growth Area (Construction); Nambucca Heads Lifestyle Estate (Construction); Vista Apartments (Construction); and Nambucca River Foreshore Walk and Cultural Way (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Nambucca Heads Surrounds 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.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 34th percentile.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is slightly higher than average within Nambucca Heads Surrounds when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 area has seen 56 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2's current population of 8,679 has been supported by 35 approvals on average over recent years.
The Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 has seen 4.3 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 5.7 approvals in Regional NSW. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 307 people in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds 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 Surrounds SA2's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 35, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 has grown by approximately 517 people, while 177 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.9 people added for each new dwelling approval. This indicates solid population growth supported by housing development activity.
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 Nambucca Heads Surrounds are slightly above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 8,679 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +7.1% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 6 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 16th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 8,102 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 577 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 1,356.10 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 was estimated to be approximately 8,679 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 8,550 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The nambucca heads surrounds sa2 has added approximately 577 people and shown a 7.12% increase from the 8,102 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 is estimated at 6 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.0% per annum.
Population growth in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 is driven by: Interstate migration (66.0%), Natural increase (17.6%), Overseas migration (16.4%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 66.0% of overall population gains.
Nambucca Heads Surrounds ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 50 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 91st percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 28.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 16.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 16.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 44.7% | 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 | 50 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 9.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 7.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 10.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 15.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 16.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 9.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 at 50 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 50 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 50 years as at August 2026, Nambucca Heads Surrounds is 7 years older than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 12 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 Surrounds SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 16.9% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 7.0% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional NSW. The most over-represented age group is 65-74 year-olds (16.9% vs 12.3%). The most under-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (7.0% vs 11.5%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 16.8% of the population in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 28.7% of the population in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds 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) | $43,245 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $54,382 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,111 | 2021 Census, weekly | 8th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $554 | 2021 Census, weekly | 7th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 11.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,358 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 36.3% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 is approximately $46,004. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $43,245.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 is approximately $57,852. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $54,382.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 is approximately $46,004 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $43,245 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 is approximately $57,852 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $54,382 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2's households (~28.5% / 875 households) is the $800 - 1,499 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 is the $800 - 1,499 group, representing about 28.5% 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 Surrounds SA2 is $1,111/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 is $1,358/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 is $554/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2's median income among taxpayers is $43,245, with an average of $54,382. This is lower than average on a national basis, 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 $46,004 (median) and $57,852 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 is $4,170 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The nambucca heads surrounds sa2's disposable income is $4,170 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch assessment indicates Nambucca Heads Surrounds faces employment challenges relative to the majority of Australian markets.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 5.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 55.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 3,706 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 7,437 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 3,923 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 has approximately 3,706 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 5.5%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 stands at 5.5%, which is 1.4 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 Surrounds SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (18.0% of employment), agriculture, forestry & fishing (11.7%), and education & training (11.2%). Other significant employers include construction and retail trade.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 is 55.2%, 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 nambucca heads surrounds sa2 shows notable specialisation in agriculture, forestry & fishing, which employs 11.7% of the local workforce compared to 5.3% across Regional NSW. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 2.2, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The nambucca heads surrounds 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.
Educational outcomes in Nambucca Heads Surrounds fall within the lower quartile nationally, indicating opportunities for improvement in qualification attainment.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 13.3% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 18.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 33.2% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.3% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 38.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 28.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 10.3% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 9.1% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
18.3% of people aged 15 and over in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
38.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The nambucca heads surrounds sa2 ranks in the 25th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 are: Certificate (33.2%), Bachelor Degree (13.3%), Advanced Diploma (10.3%).
28.3% of the population in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 10.3% in primary school, 9.1% in secondary school, 2.4% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 is 935, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 5 schools within the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 367 students.
The nambucca heads surrounds sa2 includes 4 primary schools, 1 combined school.
Nambucca Heads Surrounds features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few couples with children, 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 | 26.9% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 24.0% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 33.6% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 11.3% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.5% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 3,069 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 3,288 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 69.7% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.0 per family | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 had 3,069 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 7.1% to an estimated 3,288 households today.
The average household size in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 69.7% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (26.9%), group households (3.5%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,139 family households, couples with children account for 24.0% of all households, couples without children at home 33.6%, and single parent families 11.3%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds 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 45.8% 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 26.9% of all households in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2, similar to the average for Regional NSW of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.5% of households, slightly above the Regional NSW average of 3.3%.
Nambucca Heads Surrounds is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 10.6% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 96.8% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 89.3% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 89.4% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 4.4% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
Nambucca Heads Surrounds was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 89.3% of its population being citizens, 89.4% born in Australia, and 96.8% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Nambucca Heads Surrounds was found to be Christianity, which makes up 48.6% of people in Nambucca Heads Surrounds. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Other, which comprises 1.0% 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 Nambucca Heads Surrounds are English, comprising 33.4% of the population, Australian, comprising 31.0% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 9.0% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Australian Aboriginal is notably overrepresented at 4.4% of Nambucca Heads Surrounds (vs 4.6% across Regional NSW), Irish at 8.9% (vs 8.8%) and Welsh at 0.5% (vs 0.5%).
10.6% of the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
3.2% of the population in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
4.4% of the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
89.3% of the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Nambucca Heads Surrounds is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 13.6% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 52.9% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 97.0% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,400 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 24th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 33.4% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 2.0% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $300 | 2021 Census, weekly | 26th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 27.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 89th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 29.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 86th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2, 52.9% of homes are owned outright, 33.4% are owned with a mortgage, and 13.6% are rented.
According to the latest data, 97.0% of dwellings in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 are houses.
In the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2, 0.5% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 2.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 stands at 52.9%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 is $1,400, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 is $644, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 29.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 27.0% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 29.1% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 27.0% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 consists of 97.0% detached houses, 2.0% semi-detached dwellings, 0.5% apartments, and 0.6% other dwelling types.
Housing in Nambucca Heads Surrounds consumes approximately 13.4% of median household income ($4,811 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 Surrounds show attached dwellings contributing 7% of approvals compared to 3% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 93% of applications versus 97% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. The area shows minimal growth in housing density compared to other Australian locations.
Nambucca Heads Surrounds's residents are relatively healthy in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 46.4% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 4th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 62.5% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.9% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 71.0% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
Around 46.4% of people in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2, 6.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
7.8% of people in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds 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 Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.0% of people in the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2, 46.4% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional NSW sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 52.2%.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 42 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 276 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 95th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 818 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 31st percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 31 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 54 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.6 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 18.7% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 276 public transport stops within the Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2.
The Nambucca Heads Surrounds SA2 has 818 weekly trips across 54 routes, averaging 116 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 348 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 4.1 km away and the nearest school 4.5 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 276 stops nearby, 818 weekly trips, access rating 42 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 52 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 4.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 4.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 5.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 7.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 7.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 9.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 9.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 10.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 12.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 14.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 14.6 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).
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 Surrounds is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Nambucca Heads Surrounds.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is slightly higher than average within Nambucca Heads Surrounds when compared nationally.
Nambucca Heads Surrounds has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 34th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Nambucca Heads Surrounds's resilient property market has recorded 170 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 71% residential, 7% commercial and 22% vacant land transactions.
Population growth drivers in Nambucca Heads Surrounds are slightly above average based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium term trends.
Nambucca Heads Surrounds ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 6% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch assessment indicates Nambucca Heads Surrounds faces employment challenges relative to the majority of Australian markets.
Educational outcomes in Nambucca Heads Surrounds fall within the lower quartile nationally, indicating opportunities for improvement in qualification attainment.
Nambucca Heads Surrounds features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with an average household size in line with Regional NSW.
Nambucca Heads Surrounds is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
Nambucca Heads Surrounds is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Nambucca Heads Surrounds's residents are relatively healthy in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be in line with the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Nambucca Heads Surrounds has an estimated 8,679 residents, up 7.1% since the 2021 Census, with 61 projects tracked in the area around Nambucca Heads Surrounds.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Sources: ABS Census 2021, ABS estimated resident population, ATO taxation statistics, state rental bonds and property sales records where published, and AreaSearch analysis for Nambucca Heads Surrounds.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Oct 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to May 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 (108021159). 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 (May 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 Surrounds from the 2021 Census, ATO taxpayer data and AreaSearch estimates and analysis. Each topic has its own table of key figures beside the section it belongs to, and each row names its source and date. The percentile compares Nambucca Heads Surrounds with every neighbourhood-sized area across Australia (ABS SA2 areas): a higher percentile means more of that measure than most, not necessarily better.
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
