Area profile · Rest of NSW
Port Macquarie - East has an estimated 11,976 residents, up 1.8% since the 2021 Census, with 10 projects tracked in Port Macquarie - East.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Located 312 kilometres north-northeast from Sydney CBD, the Port Macquarie - East Statistical Area (Lv2) is a scenic coastal locality celebrated for its beaches, clear waters, lush greenery, and seaside lifestyle. The district supports a vibrant culinary scene supplied by fresh seafood and local produce, complemented by abundant parks and recreation spaces suited for swimming, fishing, surfing, and outdoor pursuits. As of August 2026, the area's estimated population stands at approximately 11,976, reflecting minimal change from the 11,764 persons recorded at the 2021 Census when considering the latest ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) figures and new addresses added since the Census date (latest population estimate date: Aug 2026). Overall demographic expansion displays moderate growth patterns, while property transaction volume is exceptionally high relative to total population size.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Located 312 kilometres north-northeast from Sydney CBD, the Port Macquarie - East Statistical Area (Lv2) is a scenic coastal locality celebrated for its beaches, clear waters, lush greenery, and seaside lifestyle. The district supports a vibrant culinary scene supplied by fresh seafood and local produce, complemented by abundant parks and recreation spaces suited for swimming, fishing, surfing, and outdoor pursuits. As of August 2026, the area's estimated population stands at approximately 11,976, reflecting minimal change from the 11,764 persons recorded at the 2021 Census when considering the latest ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) figures and new addresses added since the Census date (latest population estimate date: Aug 2026). Overall demographic expansion displays moderate growth patterns, while property transaction volume is exceptionally high relative to total population size.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 10,559 in 2001 and 11,908 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 11,976 (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, 14%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 28.3%.
Port Macquarie - East ranks in the 94th percentile nationally for sales activity and the 76th 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 Port Macquarie - East is $545 a week, up 4.5% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 6% below Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.3%.
6% below Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $409 in 2017, $609 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $270 in 2017, $440 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30 Parklands Avenue, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 | $1,250,000 | 21 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 32 Calwalla Crescent, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 | $930,000 | 20 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 7 Herschell Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 | $925,000 | 20 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 11/1 Clarence Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 | $615,000 | 20 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 5 Wattle Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 | $827,500 | 19 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 7/8 Windmill Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 | $545,000 | 19 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 32 Karalee Parade, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 | $1,040,000 | 16 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 35 Kalinda Drive, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 | $1,025,000 | 15 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 4/6 Stewart Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 | $750,000 | 15 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 30 Amaroo Parade, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 | $1,150,000 | 14 Oct 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 50 residential sales recorded since 28 Aug 2026 (the latest settled 21 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 50, houses and units together, was $810,000 (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 | $545 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 | 3.3% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $1.02m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $635k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $810,000 | Median of the 50 most recent residential sales, settled 28 Aug 2026 to 21 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $609 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +3.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $440 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +5.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.1% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 3.6% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Port Macquarie | $595 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Port Macquarie, over 12 months | +5.1% | 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 309 tracked applications: 48 approved, 39 under assessment, 222 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Port Macquarie - East, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 10 projects in Port Macquarie - East (2 under construction) and 98 more in the surrounding area.
Premium 19-lot residential estate positioned on the highest elevation in Port Macquarie known as Transit Hill. Luxury custom-designed family homes with uninterrupted ocean views, surrounded by 3 acres of protected rainforest with private walking trails. Features exclusive builder concierge service and council-approved designs.
A luxury residential development featuring 15 three-bedroom plus study apartments. Designed by King + Campbell, the project emphasizes contemporary coastal architecture with curved forms and high-end finishes, situated directly opposite Town Beach.
Tara Town Beach is a completed boutique luxury coastal development comprising 24 premium two and three-bedroom residences opposite Town Beach in Port Macquarie. The project has reached practical completion with apartments now occupied and remaining residences being marketed for sale.
A proposed 18-storey State Significant Development (SSD) featuring 210 dwellings, including 35 affordable housing units, alongside hotel, entertainment, and commercial space on the corner of Park and Warlters streets.
A 10 million dollar expansion featuring a new seventh operating theatre, a new central sterilising department, onsite radiology, expanded day surgery admission areas, upgraded patient rooms, main reception, and additional parking to meet growing regional healthcare needs.
The Port Macquarie Aquatic Facility is a planned regional aquatic centre at Macquarie Park, 28 Gordon Street, Port Macquarie, to replace the ageing Port Macquarie Olympic Pool. The Northern Regional Planning Panel approved development application DA 2024.141.1 in late 2024, with a capital investment value of $67.55 million.
Transport for NSW has scaled back the original plan to repair 600 metres of the southern breakwall along the Hastings River. Following a comprehensive engineering report in November 2025, the structure was found to be largely stable, with only two small sections needing targeted attention.
Proposed joint venture redevelopment of the Port City Bowling Club's underutilised 119-space, 5,400 sqm carpark, which sits across Owen Street from the club. The site has medium-density zoning, a 26.5m height limit and potential ocean views from upper levels.
A boutique development of 40 premium two and three-bedroom apartments over four levels at 28-30 Waugh Street, Port Macquarie. Designed by Stewart Architecture, Akoya occupies a natural rise directly opposite Westport Park and the Hastings River, with upper-level apartments capturing panoramic views across the marina, harbour foreshores and far northern…
Boutique development featuring 16 residential apartments with high-quality finishes, engineered timber floors, premium Miele appliances, and Davinci Blanco Smartstone benchtops. Only 5 residences remain available for sale. Mix of 2 and 3-bedroom apartments designed for relaxed coastal living with leafy park outlook and Hastings River views.
A $123 million major road upgrade duplicating 3.4 km of Ocean Drive into a four-lane divided carriageway, upgrading five key intersections, constructing fauna crossings, and installing new trunk water mains to improve regional traffic flow and safety. The project officially opened in December 2025 with minor finishing works concluding in early 2026.
Boutique six-level residential development comprising 18 apartments with basement parking and landscaping in the Port Macquarie CBD. Construction has been completed, apartments have received certification and are occupied, with multiple completed sales now recorded.
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 53 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 2, 2026 14, 2027 11, 2028 6, 2029 7, 2030 7, 2031 1, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 1, 2035 3, 2036 1. 34 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 309 substantial development applications lodged in and around Port Macquarie - East over the past 5 years, 119 in the last 12 months; 39 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 8, 2022 70, 2023 36, 2024 40, 2025 38, 2026 (to Nov) 117.
Key application 50 Pacific Drive, Port Macquarie Multi-Resi | $15m | 39 dwellings | 8 storeys Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 309 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 119 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 2.6 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 34th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 31 | ABS building approvals | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 48 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 39 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Port Macquarie - East SA2 include: Ocean Estate Port Macquarie (Construction); Port Macquarie Aquatic Facility (Approved); Salt Town Beach (Construction); Tara Town Beach (Completed); and Port Macquarie Private Hospital Expansion (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Port Macquarie - East SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Sports & Recreation, and Health & Medical, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Port Macquarie - East SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 23rd percentile.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees a low level of activity in Port Macquarie - East, placing the area among the bottom 21% of areas assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 area has seen 34 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Port Macquarie - East SA2's current population of 11,976 has been supported by 31 approvals on average over recent years.
The Port Macquarie - East SA2 has seen 2.6 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 739 people in the Port Macquarie - East SA2, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Port Macquarie - East SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 31, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 has grown by approximately 153 people, while 156 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.0 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 Port Macquarie - East reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 11,976 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +1.8% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,688 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 64th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 11,764 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 212 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 7.09 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Port Macquarie - East SA2 was estimated to be approximately 11,976 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 11,908 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The port macquarie - east sa2 has added approximately 212 people and shown a 1.80% increase from the 11,764 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 is estimated at 1,689 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.2% per annum.
Population growth in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (80.4%), Natural increase (19.6%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 80.4% of overall population gains.
Port Macquarie - East hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 46 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 81st percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 26.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 15.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 21.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 47.7% | 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 | 46 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 10.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 10.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 10.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 13.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 14.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 9.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 at 46 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 46 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 46 years as at August 2026, Port Macquarie - East is 3 years older than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 8 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 14.0% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 10.4% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 is broadly in line with Regional NSW.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 15.9% of the population in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 26.0% of the population in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 as at August 2026.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $53,028 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 25th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $67,097 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,396 | 2021 Census, weekly | 28th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $761 | 2021 Census, weekly | 40th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 18.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,929 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 27.8% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 is approximately $56,411. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $53,028.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 is approximately $71,378. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $67,097.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 is approximately $56,411 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $53,028 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 is approximately $71,378 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $67,097 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Port Macquarie - East SA2's households (~28.3% / 1,413 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 28.3% of households. In comparison, Regional NSW's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 29.9% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 is $1,396/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 is $1,929/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 is $761/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 is lower than average on a national basis, with the median assessed at $53,028 while the average income stands at $67,097. This contrasts to Regional NSW's figures of a median income of $55,733 and an average income of $69,112. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $56,411 (median) and $71,378 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 is $4,991 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The port macquarie - east sa2's disposable income is $4,991 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The employment environment in Port Macquarie - East shows above-average strength when compared nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 62.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 6,047 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 11,961 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 6,247 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Port Macquarie - East SA2 has approximately 6,047 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.2%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 stands at 3.2%, which is 0.9 percentage points below Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (22.5% of employment), education & training (11.7%), and accommodation & food (11.0%). Other significant employers include retail trade and construction.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Port Macquarie - East 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 Port Macquarie - East SA2 is 62.9%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate leading the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional NSW.
The port macquarie - east sa2 shows notable specialisation in health care & social assistance, which employs 22.5% of the local workforce compared to 16.9% across Regional NSW. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The port macquarie - east sa2's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 7.7% growth, ranking 9th out of 37 regions nationally.
Educational attainment in Port Macquarie - East sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 19.9% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 5.9% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 28.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 25.4% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.8% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 34.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 27.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 5.0% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.1% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.6% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
28.8% of people aged 15 and over in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
34.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The port macquarie - east sa2 ranks in the 51th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 are: Certificate (25.4%), Bachelor Degree (19.9%), Advanced Diploma (11.8%).
27.9% of the population in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.1% in primary school, 7.6% in secondary school, 5.0% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 is 998, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 5 schools within the Port Macquarie - East SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,364 students.
The port macquarie - east sa2 includes 4 primary schools, 1 secondary school.
Port Macquarie - East features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.2 people | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 33.9% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 21.6% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 28.8% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 11.1% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.9% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 4,990 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 5,080 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 62.2% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Port Macquarie - East SA2 had 4,990 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 1.8% to an estimated 5,080 households today.
The average household size in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 is 2.2 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 62.2% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (33.9%), group households (3.9%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 3,104 family households, couples with children account for 21.6% of all households, couples without children at home 28.8%, and single parent families 11.1%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Port Macquarie - East SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 33.9% (versus 27.9% in Regional NSW). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 62.2% 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 Port Macquarie - East SA2 have an average of 1.7 children, slightly below the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 43.9% of the adult population are currently married, while 33.4% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 33.9% of all households in the Port Macquarie - East 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 3.9% of households, slightly above the Regional NSW average of 3.3%.
Port Macquarie - East ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 15.3% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 5.4% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 94.6% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 90.2% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 84.7% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
Port Macquarie - East was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 84.7% of its population born in Australia, 90.2% being citizens, and 94.6% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Port Macquarie - East was found to be Christianity, which makes up 51.4% of people in Port Macquarie - East. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 1.0% of the population, compared to 0.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Port Macquarie - East are English, comprising 32.2% of the population, Australian, comprising 28.0% of the population, and Irish, comprising 10.8% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Scottish is notably overrepresented at 8.8% of Port Macquarie - East (vs 8.0% across Regional NSW), French at 0.6% (vs 0.4%) and Australian Aboriginal at 3.0% (vs 4.6%).
15.3% of the Port Macquarie - East SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
5.4% of the population in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
3.0% of the Port Macquarie - East SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
90.2% of the Port Macquarie - East SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Port Macquarie - East displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 41.0% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 34.1% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 54.6% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,753 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 46th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 24.9% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 14.7% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $350 | 2021 Census, weekly | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 25.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 29.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 85th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Port Macquarie - East SA2, 34.1% of homes are owned outright, 24.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 41.0% are rented.
According to the latest data, 54.6% of dwellings in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 are houses.
In the Port Macquarie - East SA2, 29.9% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 14.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 stands at 34.1%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 is $1,753, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 is $1,058, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Port Macquarie - East SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 29.0% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 25.1% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 29.0% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 25.1% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 consists of 54.6% detached houses, 14.7% semi-detached dwellings, 29.9% apartments, and 0.8% other dwelling types.
Housing in Port Macquarie - East consumes approximately 17.5% of median household income ($6,045 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Port Macquarie - East show attached dwellings contributing 44% of approvals compared to 45% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 56% of applications versus 55% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Port Macquarie - East's residents are extremely healthy relative to locations nationally with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 50.9% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 35th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 64.7% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.7% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 72.7% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
Around 50.9% of people in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Port Macquarie - East SA2, 5.7% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
8.1% of people in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.7% of the Port Macquarie - East SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.3% of people in the Port Macquarie - East SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Port Macquarie - East SA2, 50.9% 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 | 57 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 57th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 114 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 77th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 1,370 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 40th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 105 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 103 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.2 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 15.7% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 114 public transport stops within the Port Macquarie - East SA2.
The Port Macquarie - East SA2 has 1,370 weekly trips across 103 routes, averaging 195 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 148 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 532 m away and the nearest school 614 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 114 stops nearby, 1,370 weekly trips, access rating 57 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 76 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 76th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 532 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 614 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 685 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 700 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 954 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 974 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 2.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 2.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 3.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 4.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 2 long day care centres with 159 places in Port Macquarie - East, about 3.4 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 Port Macquarie - East 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 Port Macquarie - East.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees a low level of activity in Port Macquarie - East, placing the area among the bottom 21% of areas assessed nationally.
Port Macquarie - East has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 23rd percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Port Macquarie - East's established property market has recorded 338 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 98% residential and 2% commercial transactions.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Port Macquarie - East reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Port Macquarie - East hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
The employment environment in Port Macquarie - East shows above-average strength when compared nationally.
Educational attainment in Port Macquarie - East sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
Port Macquarie - East features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
Port Macquarie - East ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Port Macquarie - East displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
Port Macquarie - East's residents are extremely healthy relative to locations nationally with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
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 above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Port Macquarie - East has an estimated 11,976 residents, up 1.8% since the 2021 Census, with 10 projects tracked in Port Macquarie - East.
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 Port Macquarie - East.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Oct 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Oct 2026. Housing 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 (108041619). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Oct 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, 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 Port Macquarie - East 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 Port Macquarie - East 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.
