Area profile · Rest of NSW
Port Macquarie - West has an estimated 24,657 residents, up 16.6% since the 2021 Census, with 17 projects tracked in Port Macquarie - West.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Situated 310 kilometres north-northeast from Sydney CBD, the Port Macquarie - West Statistical Area (Lv2) represents an expanding coastal hub characterised by strong residential demand, exceptional sales activity relative to its population size, and well above average development activity. As of August 2026, the area is estimated to have a resident population of around 24,657 people, reflecting an expansion of 3,510 residents (16.6%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 21,147 people. This upward trend builds upon an estimated resident population (ERP) of 23,991 confirmed by the ABS as of June 2025, alongside an influx of 1,681 validated new addresses post-Census. Such momentum places the district among the top 10% of areas nationally for population growth, supported by structural drivers that include an elevated utilities employment segment, a substantial healthcare workforce, a strong apartment presence, and a notable semi-detached dwelling base.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Situated 310 kilometres north-northeast from Sydney CBD, the Port Macquarie - West Statistical Area (Lv2) represents an expanding coastal hub characterised by strong residential demand, exceptional sales activity relative to its population size, and well above average development activity. As of August 2026, the area is estimated to have a resident population of around 24,657 people, reflecting an expansion of 3,510 residents (16.6%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 21,147 people. This upward trend builds upon an estimated resident population (ERP) of 23,991 confirmed by the ABS as of June 2025, alongside an influx of 1,681 validated new addresses post-Census. Such momentum places the district among the top 10% of areas nationally for population growth, supported by structural drivers that include an elevated utilities employment segment, a substantial healthcare workforce, a strong apartment presence, and a notable semi-detached dwelling base.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 12,360 in 2001 and 23,991 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 24,657 (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, 13%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $800 - 1,499, 27.3%.
Port Macquarie - West ranks in the 95th percentile nationally for development activity and the 90th for population growth.
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 - West is $600 a week, up 5.3% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 3% above Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.8%.
3% above Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $450 in 2017, $670 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $298 in 2017, $485 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 47 The Anchorage, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 | $920,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 2/47 Ackroyd Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 | $590,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 53/4 Highfields Circuit, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 | $350,500 | 1 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 80 Commodore Crescent, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 | $2,200,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 2 Mermaid Crescent, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 | $845,000 | 29 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 51 Commander Street, Thrumster NSW 2444 | $1,000,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 7 Richard Place, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 | $725,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 7/11 Kemp Street, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 | $665,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 21 Harvest Street, Thrumster NSW 2444 | $925,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 11 Allport Avenue, Thrumster NSW 2444 | $870,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 43 residential sales recorded since 20 Aug 2026 (the latest settled 1 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 43, houses and units together, was $835,000 (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 | $600 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +5.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.8% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $890k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $648k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $835,000 | Median of the 43 most recent residential sales, settled 20 Aug 2026 to 1 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $670 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +2.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $485 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +5.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 4.0% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 3.9% | 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 869 tracked applications: 193 approved, 135 under assessment, 541 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Port Macquarie - West, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 17 projects in Port Macquarie - West (8 under construction) and 92 more in the surrounding area.
The NSW Government is investing $265 million to upgrade Port Macquarie Base Hospital on Wrights Road, Port Macquarie. The project is in master planning and concept design.
Thrumster Business Park is an eco-friendly industrial precinct in Port Macquarie covering 120,000 sqm across 60+ lots. The development features two distinct zones: Precinct 1 for community-oriented businesses and Precinct 2 for traditional industrial use.
A State Significant Infrastructure project delivering a new regional wastewater treatment plant, 11.4km of sewer mains, three new sewage pump stations, and recycled water facilities to support up to 40,000 residents across the expanding Fernbank Creek, Sancrox, and Thrumster corridors.
The commercial heart of the Sovereign Hills master planned community. Stage One is complete. The Town Centre is planned to expand to over 60,000sqm, incorporating diverse retail, a Business and Technology Park, a Health and Wellbeing Precinct, commercial offices, and a community library and town green.
Masterplanned residential community offering 245 premium homesites in a relaxed coastal lifestyle setting. Located 10 minutes from Port Macquarie CBD, the development includes 30 hectares of protected nature reserves with flat, elevated blocks.
A $1.5 billion master-planned community by Lewis Land Group spanning 350 hectares in the Thrumster urban release area, planned for over 2,000 residential dwellings and supporting over 3,000 residents[cite: 1].
Sovereign Hills Precinct 3 is a major masterplanned residential neighbourhood developed by Lewis Land Group within the Sovereign Hills community in Thrumster. The precinct delivers over 400 residential allotments, local parks, walking trails, cycle paths, and integrated stormwater wetlands adjacent to the Sovereign Hills Town Centre.
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 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…
Stage 1 of a major upgrade to improve road safety, efficiency, and capacity at the Pacific Highway-Oxley Highway interchange, known locally as 'The Port Macquarie Donut'. The NSW Government has committed $20 million to the project, which addresses congestion for the 30,000 vehicles using this section daily.
The Lake Road Duplication Project involves the four-lane widening and capacity upgrade of Lake Road between Ocean Drive and Chestnut Road. Managed by Port Macquarie Hastings Council, the corridor upgrade aims to support industrial freight movement and connectivity to western growth areas including Thrumster.
The Ocean Drive Duplication project involved the transformation of a 3.4km stretch of Ocean Drive from two lanes into a four-lane divided carriageway between Greenmeadows Drive and Matthew Flinders Drive. This $123 million infrastructure upgrade aimed to reduce traffic congestion and improve safety for the rapidly growing Port Macquarie-Hastings region.
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 51 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 2, 2026 13, 2027 11, 2028 6, 2029 6, 2030 7, 2031 1, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 1, 2035 3, 2036 1. 39 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 869 substantial development applications lodged in and around Port Macquarie - West over the past 5 years, 408 in the last 12 months; 135 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 24, 2022 133, 2023 82, 2024 129, 2025 121, 2026 (to Oct) 380.
Key application 147 The Ruins Wy, Port Macquarie Nsw 2444 The Ruins Wy, Port Macquarie $74m | 256 dwellings Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 869 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 408 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 13.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 90th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 293 | ABS building approvals | 95th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 193 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 135 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Port Macquarie - West SA2 include: Port Macquarie Base Hospital Mechanical and Clinical Infrastructure Upgrade (Planning); Pacific Highway - Oxley Highway Interchange Upgrade (Under Assessment); Oxley Highway Corridor Upgrade (Wrights Road to Lake Road) (Planning); The Sanctuary Port Macquarie (Construction); and Lake Road Duplication Project (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Port Macquarie - West SA2 spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Health & Medical, and Residential Development, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Port Macquarie - West SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 34th percentile.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places residential development activity in Port Macquarie - West higher than 95% of real estate markets across the country.
Dwelling approval activity in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 area has seen 559 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Port Macquarie - West SA2's current population of 24,657 has been supported by 293 approvals on average over recent years.
The Port Macquarie - West SA2 has seen 13.4 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 5.7 approvals in Regional NSW. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 85 people in the Port Macquarie - West SA2, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Port Macquarie - West SA2's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 293, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 has grown by approximately 3,558 people, while 1,464 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.4 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.
Port Macquarie - West lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 24,657 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +16.6% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 455 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +3.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +3.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 21,147 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 3,510 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +2.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 54.17 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Port Macquarie - West SA2 was estimated to be approximately 24,657 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 23,991 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The port macquarie - west sa2 has added approximately 3,510 people and shown a 16.60% increase from the 21,147 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 is estimated at 455 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 3.4% per annum.
Population growth in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 is driven by: Interstate migration (88.7%), Overseas migration (11.3%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 88.7% of overall population gains.
Port Macquarie - West 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 | 84th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 28.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 14.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 24.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 44.3% | 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 | 47 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 10.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 12.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 12.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 10.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 13.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 11.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 4.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 at 46 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 47 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 46 years as at August 2026, Port Macquarie - West 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 - West SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 11.0% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 10.5% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional NSW. The most over-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (4.3% vs 2.9%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 14.9% of the population in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 28.3% of the population in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 81% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| 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 | $1,193 | 2021 Census, weekly | 12th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $644 | 2021 Census, weekly | 18th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 11.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,532 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 33.9% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Port Macquarie - West 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 - West 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 - West 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 - West 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 - West SA2's households (~27.3% / 2,374 households) is the $800 - 1,499 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 is the $800 - 1,499 group, representing about 27.3% 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 - West SA2 is $1,193/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 is $1,532/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 is $644/wk.
The Port Macquarie - West SA2's income level is below the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Port Macquarie - West SA2's median income among taxpayers is $53,028 and the average income stands at $67,097, which compares to figures for Regional NSW's of $55,733 and $69,112 respectively. 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 - West SA2 is $4,112 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The port macquarie - west sa2's disposable income is $4,112 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Despite maintaining a low unemployment rate of 4.0%, Port Macquarie - West has experienced recent job losses, resulting in a below average employment performance ranking when compared nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 4.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 53.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 10,525 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 27,275 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 10,962 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Port Macquarie - West SA2 has approximately 10,525 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.0%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement, though the very low unemployment rate of 4.0% indicates the ranking primarily reflects recent job losses rather than underlying labor market weakness.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 stands at 4.0%, which is broadly in line with Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (24.5% of employment), retail trade (13.1%), and accommodation & food (10.7%). Other significant employers include construction and education & training.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Port Macquarie - West 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 - West SA2 is 53.2%, 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 port macquarie - west sa2 shows notable specialisation in health care & social assistance, which employs 24.5% 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 - west sa2's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. However, the low unemployment rate of 4.0% suggests the ranking is driven by recent job losses rather than structural weakness. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 7.7% growth, ranking 9th out of 37 regions nationally.
Port Macquarie - West shows below-average educational performance compared to national benchmarks, though pockets of achievement exist.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 12.8% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.6% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 18.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 30.0% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.0% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 40.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 27.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 5.6% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 8.6% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.1% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
18.2% of people aged 15 and over in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
40.7% of people aged 15 and over in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The port macquarie - west sa2 ranks in the 40th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 are: Certificate (30.0%), Bachelor Degree (12.8%), Advanced Diploma (11.0%).
27.7% of the population in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.6% in primary school, 7.1% in secondary school, 5.6% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 is 996, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 13 schools within the Port Macquarie - West SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 5,191 students.
The port macquarie - west sa2 includes 5 primary schools, 4 secondary schools, 3 combined schools.
Port Macquarie - West features high concentrations of lone person households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.2 people | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 33.0% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 19.9% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 30.5% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 12.0% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.6% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 8,705 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 10,150 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 63.4% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Port Macquarie - West SA2 had 8,705 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 16.6% to an estimated 10,150 households today.
The average household size in the Port Macquarie - West 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 63.4% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (33.0%), group households (3.6%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 5,519 family households, couples with children account for 19.9% of all households, couples without children at home 30.5%, and single parent families 12.0%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Port Macquarie - West SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 33.0% (versus 27.9% in Regional NSW). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 63.4% 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 - West 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 42.9% of the adult population are currently married, while 32.6% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 33.0% of all households in the Port Macquarie - West 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 3.6% of households, slightly above the Regional NSW average of 3.3%.
Port Macquarie - West 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 | 15.6% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 6.6% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 93.4% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 89.8% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 84.4% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 4.7% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
Port Macquarie - West was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 84.4% of its population born in Australia, 89.8% being citizens, and 93.4% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Port Macquarie - West was found to be Christianity, which makes up 57.6% of people in Port Macquarie - West. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Port Macquarie - West are English, comprising 32.4% of the population, Australian, comprising 30.1% of the population, and Irish, comprising 8.6% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Australian Aboriginal is notably overrepresented at 4.7% of Port Macquarie - West (vs 4.6% across Regional NSW), Maltese at 0.5% (vs 0.4%) and Filipino at 0.9% (vs 0.6%).
15.6% of the Port Macquarie - West SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
6.6% of the population in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
4.7% of the Port Macquarie - West SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
89.8% of the Port Macquarie - West SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Port Macquarie - West 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 | 36.0% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 38.9% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 64.4% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,820 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 50th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 25.1% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 20.2% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $385 | 2021 Census, weekly | 56th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 32.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 97th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 35.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 97th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the Port Macquarie - West SA2, 38.9% of homes are owned outright, 25.1% are owned with a mortgage, and 36.0% are rented.
According to the latest data, 64.4% of dwellings in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 are houses.
In the Port Macquarie - West SA2, 14.9% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 20.2% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 stands at 38.9%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 is $1,820, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 is $1,057, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Port Macquarie - West SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 35.2% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 32.3% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 35.2% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 32.3% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 consists of 64.4% detached houses, 20.2% semi-detached dwellings, 14.9% apartments, and 0.6% other dwelling types.
Housing in Port Macquarie - West consumes approximately 20.5% of median household income ($5,166 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 - West show attached dwellings contributing 38% of approvals compared to 36% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 62% of applications versus 64% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in Port Macquarie - West is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 50.9% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 35th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 57.5% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 9.6% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 69.2% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.5% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
Around 50.9% of people in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Port Macquarie - West SA2, 9.6% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
8.7% of people in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.0% of the Port Macquarie - West SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.1% of people in the Port Macquarie - West SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Port Macquarie - West 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 | 48 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 48th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 163 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 88th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 2,130 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 52nd percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 149 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 128 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.1 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 11.7% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 163 public transport stops within the Port Macquarie - West SA2.
The Port Macquarie - West SA2 has 2,130 weekly trips across 128 routes, averaging 304 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 221 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 718 m away and the nearest school 824 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 163 stops nearby, 2,130 weekly trips, access rating 48 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 82 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 718 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 824 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 904 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 4.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 4.0 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 13 long day care centres with 1,041 places in Port Macquarie - West, about 1.1 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 - West 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 - West.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places residential development activity in Port Macquarie - West higher than 95% of real estate markets across the country.
Port Macquarie - West has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 34th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Port Macquarie - West's resilient property market has recorded 764 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 86% residential, 5% commercial and 9% vacant land transactions.
Port Macquarie - West lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Port Macquarie - West hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
Income figures position the area below 81% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
Despite maintaining a low unemployment rate of 4.0%, Port Macquarie - West has experienced recent job losses, resulting in a below average employment performance ranking when compared nationally.
Port Macquarie - West shows below-average educational performance compared to national benchmarks, though pockets of achievement exist.
Port Macquarie - West features high concentrations of lone person households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
Port Macquarie - West ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Port Macquarie - West displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
Health performance in Port Macquarie - West is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older 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 above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Port Macquarie - West has an estimated 24,657 residents, up 16.6% since the 2021 Census, with 17 projects tracked in Port Macquarie - West.
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 - West.
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, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (108041164). 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, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Port Macquarie - West 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 - West 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.
