Area profile · Rest of NSW
Sawtell - Boambee has an estimated 20,612 residents, up 2.7% since the 2021 Census, with 6 projects tracked in Sawtell - Boambee.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Situated 320 kilometres south from Brisbane CBD, the Sawtell - Boambee Statistical Area (Lv2) is a picturesque coastal enclave in New South Wales renowned for its relaxed, community-focused lifestyle and natural splendour. Framed by pristine ocean beaches, lush subtropical rainforests, and tranquil estuaries, the locality attracts outdoor enthusiasts while supporting an engaging arts and cultural atmosphere with community markets, galleries, and performance spaces. A dynamic collection of boutique shops, cafes, and dining options further enhances its coastal village appeal. Demographically, the area exhibits lower-quartile household income levels and a mature population profile with a median age of 45, highlighted by significant representation in the 75 to 84yo bracket alongside a substantial proportion 85 and over. Households are also characterised by an above-average children per family dynamic.
As of Aug 2026, AreaSearch estimates the population of the Sawtell - Boambee Statistical Area (Lv2) at approximately 20,612 residents.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 17,898 in 2001 and 20,581 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 20,612 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 5 to 14, 12.6%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 30.6%.
Sawtell - Boambee ranks in the 73rd percentile nationally for amenities and the 49th for employment drivers.
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 Sawtell - Boambee is $595 a week, up 1.2% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 3% above Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.5%.
3% above Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $409 in 2017, $659 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $298 in 2017, $466 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 25 Cuthbert Street, Boambee East NSW 2452 | $870,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 223 Linden Avenue, Boambee East NSW 2452 | $836,260 | 1 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 15 Corella Place, Boambee East NSW 2452 | $793,500 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 27 Annandale Court, Boambee East NSW 2452 | $765,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 9 Lamberts Road, Boambee East NSW 2452 | $460,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 31 Bonville Station Road, Bonville NSW 2450 | $6,400,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 279 North Bonville Road, Bonville NSW 2450 | $2,200,000 | 22 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 1/36 Corrigan Avenue, Toormina NSW 2452 | $670,000 | 18 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 86 Grandis Road, Bonville NSW 2450 | $1,230,000 | 15 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 32 Sandpiper Crescent, Boambee East NSW 2452 | $885,000 | 15 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 48 residential sales recorded since 27 Jul 2026 (the latest settled 1 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 48, houses and units together, was $894,325 (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 | $595 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +1.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.5% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $930k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $625k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $894,325 | Median of the 48 most recent residential sales, settled 27 Jul 2026 to 1 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $659 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +2.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $466 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +3.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.7% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 3.8% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Coffs Harbour | $614 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Coffs Harbour, over 12 months | +3.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Coffs Harbour - Grafton | $583 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Coffs Harbour - Grafton, over 12 months | +4.3% | 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 192 tracked applications: 57 approved, 33 under assessment, 102 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 6 projects in Sawtell - Boambee (2 under construction) and 55 more in the surrounding area.
Development application DA 0493/23DA submitted by Richard Benell was approved for a multi-stage residential subdivision across 647, 679A…
'95 on First' will comprise of six modern 3-bedroom townhouses, offering low-maintenance, beachside living.
City of Coffs Harbour continues to retain the Sawtell Pool Upgrade as a planned future project.
The Toormina Oval Upgrade delivers an expanded sporting precinct featuring an additional football pitch, an upgraded carpark, a connecting…
Renewal of the existing Wonga Playground at the corner of First and Third Avenue in Sawtell, replacing ageing equipment with a new climbing…
Construction of a new, prefabricated, non-permanent lifeguard tower at Sawtell Beach to provide an all-weather observation point for beach…
Elements at Coffs is a quality residential land release estate located just off Stadium Drive on the eastern side of the Pacific Highway in…
A long-term residential release area featuring The Lakes Estate and surrounding developments, with infrastructure supporting up to 361…
Coffs Harbour Airport Enterprise Park is a commercial and industrial employment precinct within Coffs Harbour Airport.
A $29 million capital investment to modernise facilities and expand vocational training capacity at the Coffs Harbour Education Campus.
A $12 million Health Sciences Building featuring advanced laboratories and teaching spaces for nursing, midwifery, occupational therapy…
A $12.5 million expansion of the regional sports hub including additional playing fields, amenities, and support facilities.
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 23 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 7, 2027 7, 2028 1, 2029 0, 2030 3, 2031 2, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 2. 19 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 192 substantial development applications lodged in and around Sawtell - Boambee over the past 5 years, 141 in the last 12 months; 33 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 2, 2022 23, 2023 12, 2024 9, 2025 8, 2026 (to Oct) 138.
Key application 1-3 Marian Place, Toormina Commercial | $12m Approved
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 192 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 141 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 2.2 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 26th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 43 | ABS building approvals | 54th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 57 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 33 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 include: Boambee East Residential Subdivision (Approved); 95 on First Townhouses (Sea Esta) (Construction); Toormina Oval Upgrade (Construction); Sawtell Pool Upgrade Project (Planning); and Wonga Park Sawtell Playground Renewal (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 spans multiple sectors including Sports & Recreation, Residential Development, and Communities, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 33rd percentile.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Sawtell - Boambee compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 area has seen 79 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Sawtell - Boambee SA2's current population of 20,612 has been supported by 43 approvals on average over recent years.
The Sawtell - Boambee SA2 has seen 2.1 approval 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 523 people in the Sawtell - Boambee 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 Sawtell - Boambee SA2's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 43, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 has grown by approximately 461 people, while 217 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.1 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.
Sawtell - Boambee is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 20,612 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +2.7% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 174 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 20,066 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 546 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 118.23 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 was estimated to be approximately 20,612 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 20,581 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The sawtell - boambee sa2 has added approximately 546 people and shown a 2.72% increase from the 20,066 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 is estimated at 174 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.4% per annum.
Population growth in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (72.8%), Natural increase (27.2%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 72.8% of overall population gains.
Sawtell - Boambee hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 45 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 78th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 25.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 18.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 20.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 45.3% | 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 | 45 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 12.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 9.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 11.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 12.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 9.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 at 45 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 45 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 45 years as at August 2026, Sawtell - Boambee is 2 years older than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 7 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 9.1% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 9.4% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 is broadly in line with Regional NSW.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 18.2% of the population in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 25.1% of the population in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 76% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $52,419 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $62,983 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,352 | 2021 Census, weekly | 24th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $683 | 2021 Census, weekly | 25th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 14.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,690 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 29.5% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 is approximately $55,763. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $52,419.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 is approximately $67,001. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $62,983.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 is approximately $55,763 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $52,419 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 is approximately $67,001 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $62,983 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Sawtell - Boambee SA2's households (~30.6% / 2,360 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 30.6% 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 Sawtell - Boambee SA2 is $1,352/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 is $1,690/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 is $683/wk.
The Sawtell - Boambee SA2's income level is below the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Sawtell - Boambee SA2's median income among taxpayers is $52,419 and the average income stands at $62,983, 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 $55,763 (median) and $67,001 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 is $4,847 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The sawtell - boambee sa2's disposable income is $4,847 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Despite maintaining a low unemployment rate of 3.3%, Sawtell - Boambee 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 | 3.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 55.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 8,904 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 18,421 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 9,212 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 has approximately 8,904 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.3%. 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 3.3% indicates the ranking primarily reflects recent job losses rather than underlying labor market weakness.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 stands at 3.3%, which is 0.8 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 Sawtell - Boambee SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (21.2% of employment), retail trade (12.3%), and construction (10.4%). Other significant employers include education & training and accommodation & food.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 is 55.3%, 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 sawtell - boambee sa2 shows notable specialisation in health care & social assistance, which employs 21.2% 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 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The sawtell - boambee 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 3.3% 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.
Education in Sawtell - Boambee: university qualifications 21.2%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 968.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 14.9% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.6% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 21.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 29.7% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.9% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 38.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 27.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 10.4% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 8.3% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
21.2% of people aged 15 and over in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
38.3% of people aged 15 and over in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The sawtell - boambee sa2 ranks in the 36th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 are: Certificate (29.7%), Bachelor Degree (14.9%), Advanced Diploma (10.9%).
27.8% of the population in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 10.4% in primary school, 8.3% in secondary school, 2.8% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 is 968, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 11 schools within the Sawtell - Boambee SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 3,382 students.
The sawtell - boambee sa2 includes 7 primary schools, 2 secondary schools, 2 combined schools.
Sawtell - Boambee features high concentrations of single parent families, with an average household size in line with Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 27.4% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 26.1% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 28.9% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 13.6% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 7,713 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 7,923 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 69.6% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.9 per family | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 had 7,713 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 2.7% to an estimated 7,923 households today.
The average household size in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 69.6% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (27.4%), group households (3.0%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 5,368 family households, couples with children account for 26.1% of all households, couples without children at home 28.9%, and single parent families 13.6%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 have an average of 1.9 children, slightly above the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 45.7% of the adult population are currently married, while 32.3% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 27.4% of all households in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2, similar to the average for Regional NSW of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.0% of households, slightly below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%.
Sawtell - Boambee is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 12.1% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 4.7% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 95.3% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 91.0% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 87.9% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 4.4% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
Sawtell - Boambee was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 87.9% of its population born in Australia, 91.0% being citizens, and 95.3% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Sawtell - Boambee was found to be Christianity, which makes up 51.9% of people in Sawtell - Boambee. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Other, which comprises 1.2% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Sawtell - Boambee are English, comprising 32.1% of the population, Australian, comprising 29.9% of the population, and Irish, comprising 9.3% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Australian Aboriginal is notably overrepresented at 4.4% of Sawtell - Boambee (vs 4.6% across Regional NSW), Scottish at 8.6% (vs 8.0%) and Maltese at 0.4% (vs 0.4%).
12.1% of the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
4.7% of the population in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
4.4% of the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
91.0% of the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Sawtell - Boambee is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 28.1% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 38.9% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 77.4% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,700 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 39th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 33.0% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 12.7% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $370 | 2021 Census, weekly | 50th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 27.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 91st 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 Sawtell - Boambee SA2, 38.9% of homes are owned outright, 33.0% are owned with a mortgage, and 28.1% are rented.
According to the latest data, 77.4% of dwellings in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 are houses.
In the Sawtell - Boambee SA2, 7.9% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 12.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 stands at 38.9%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 is $1,700, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 is $1,011, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Sawtell - Boambee SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 29.0% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 27.4% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 29.0% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 27.4% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 consists of 77.4% detached houses, 12.7% semi-detached dwellings, 7.9% apartments, and 2.1% other dwelling types.
Housing in Sawtell - Boambee consumes approximately 17.3% of median household income ($5,854 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Sawtell - Boambee show attached dwellings contributing 25% of approvals compared to 23% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 75% of applications versus 77% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health in Sawtell - Boambee: private health cover 49.3%, no long-term health condition 61.2%.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 49.3% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 24th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 61.2% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 7.1% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 70.7% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.1% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
Around 49.3% of people in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Sawtell - Boambee SA2, 7.1% 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 Sawtell - Boambee SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.1% of the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.2% of people in the Sawtell - Boambee SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Sawtell - Boambee SA2, 49.3% 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 | 217 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 1,480 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 42nd percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 95 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 89 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.4 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 11.8% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 217 public transport stops within the Sawtell - Boambee SA2.
The Sawtell - Boambee SA2 has 1,480 weekly trips across 89 routes, averaging 211 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 188 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 841 m away and the nearest child care centre 1.2 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 217 stops nearby, 1,480 weekly trips, access rating 48 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 73 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 841 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest GP | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 2.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 2.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 3.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 5.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 8.0 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 8 long day care centres with 367 places in Sawtell - Boambee, about 3.2 children aged 0-4 per place.
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05Reports and tools
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Sawtell - Boambee compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Sawtell - Boambee has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 33rd percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Sawtell - Boambee's established property market has recorded 365 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 95% residential, 2% commercial and 4% vacant land transactions.
Sawtell - Boambee is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
Sawtell - Boambee hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
Income figures position the area below 76% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
Despite maintaining a low unemployment rate of 3.3%, Sawtell - Boambee has experienced recent job losses, resulting in a below average employment performance ranking when compared nationally.
Education in Sawtell - Boambee: university qualifications 21.2%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 968.
Sawtell - Boambee features high concentrations of single parent families, with an average household size in line with Regional NSW.
Sawtell - Boambee is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
Sawtell - Boambee is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
Health in Sawtell - Boambee: private health cover 49.3%, no long-term health condition 61.2%.
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.
Sawtell - Boambee has an estimated 20,612 residents, up 2.7% since the 2021 Census, with 6 projects tracked in Sawtell - Boambee.
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 Sawtell - Boambee.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Oct 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Aug 2026. Housing, 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 (104021089). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Sawtell - Boambee 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 Sawtell - Boambee 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.