Area profile · Rest of NSW
Shortland - Jesmond has an estimated 14,429 residents, up 14.6% since the 2021 Census, with 9 projects tracked in Shortland - Jesmond.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Shortland - Jesmond Statistical Area (Lv2) lies 117 kilometres north-northeast of the Sydney CBD. As of Aug 2026, AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 14,429, an increase of 1,836 people (14.6%) from the 12,593 recorded at the 2021 Census. This estimate is based on the ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of 14,339 as of June 2025, together with 430 validated new addresses added since the Census date.
The area is distinguished by an above-average renting population and a strong presence of semi-detached dwellings, along with a notable share of residents aged 15 to 24 and an elevated 25 to 34 cohort. Its service amenity is rated outstanding, and retail trade forms a pronounced part of local employment. Residents skew toward teenagers and young adults, many living in group households, while education levels and income sit in the lower quartile. Population growth has been strong. Latest population estimate date: Aug 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Shortland - Jesmond Statistical Area (Lv2) lies 117 kilometres north-northeast of the Sydney CBD. As of Aug 2026, AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 14,429, an increase of 1,836 people (14.6%) from the 12,593 recorded at the 2021 Census. This estimate is based on the ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of 14,339 as of June 2025, together with 430 validated new addresses added since the Census date.
The area is distinguished by an above-average renting population and a strong presence of semi-detached dwellings, along with a notable share of residents aged 15 to 24 and an elevated 25 to 34 cohort. Its service amenity is rated outstanding, and retail trade forms a pronounced part of local employment. Residents skew toward teenagers and young adults, many living in group households, while education levels and income sit in the lower quartile. Population growth has been strong. Latest population estimate date: Aug 2026.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 9,447 in 2001 and 14,339 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 14,429 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 15 to 24, 28.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 32.8%.
Shortland - Jesmond ranks in the 98th percentile nationally for amenities and the 86th 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 Shortland - Jesmond is $522 a week, up 2.2% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 10% below Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.4%.
10% below Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $370 in 2017, $630 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $278 in 2017, $472 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3/94 Michael Street, Jesmond NSW 2299 | $670,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 40 Sunset Boulevard, North Lambton NSW 2299 | $930,000 | 29 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 4/8 Harvard Close, Jesmond NSW 2299 | $500,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 203 Maitland Road, Sandgate NSW 2304 | $760,000 | 23 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 16 Morris Street, Birmingham Gardens NSW 2287 | $860,000 | 21 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 29 Cobby Street, Shortland NSW 2307 | $867,000 | 16 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 13 Lester Parade, North Lambton NSW 2299 | $866,000 | 15 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 79 Marsden Street, Shortland NSW 2307 | $792,000 | 15 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 84 Michael Street, Jesmond NSW 2299 | $750,000 | 15 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 36 Milne Street, Shortland NSW 2307 | $800,000 | 14 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 48 residential sales recorded since 3 Jul 2026 (the latest settled 30 Sep 2026), newest first. The median of these 48, houses and units together, was $792,750 (a different set from the medians above). Source: NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch, to September 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 | $522 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +2.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.4% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $865k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $700k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $792,750 | Median of the 48 most recent residential sales, settled 3 Jul 2026 to 30 Sep 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $630 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +6.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $472 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +8.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.8% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 3.6% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Newcastle | $652 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Newcastle, over 12 months | +6.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional NSW | $580 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional NSW, over 12 months | +6.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, NSW | $715 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, NSW, over 12 months | +5.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 151 tracked applications: 61 approved, 23 under assessment, 67 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Shortland - Jesmond, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 9 projects in Shortland - Jesmond (1 under construction) and 65 more in the surrounding area.
A master-planned retirement community set on the Shortland Waters Golf Course featuring modern villas and comprehensive amenities including a community centre, gym, hair salon, and library. Stages 4 and 5 comprise 167 independent living units valued at $110 million, currently in construction and delivery phases.
DA approved three-storey Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) development with 53 self-contained studio units, 12 car spaces, expansive indoor and outdoor communal areas, and a rooftop garden. It is strategically located adjacent to the University of Newcastle's Callaghan Campus.
The Callaghan Campus Heart project is a vibrant redevelopment of the University of Newcastle's central activity hub, completed in March 2026. The project transformed the Shortland Building and Auchmuty Library into a consolidated student services centre, featuring new UNSA facilities, a commercial kitchen, student lounge, and the ASKUoN hub.
DA approved co-living development for 26 rooms (22 double, 4 single) including the demolition of the existing structure, positioned in an R3 zone close to the University of Newcastle. The approved site is currently listed for sale, with a projected gross annual return of over $500,000 once constructed.
Infrastructure upgrade to reduce flooding impacts at Boatman Creek near University Drive. The project replaced a 100-year-old brick arch culvert with a new sandstone channel, excavated and naturalised creek embankments, rehabilitated upstream creek to maximise flow capacity and channel durability, and constructed a new pedestrian and cyclist bridge.
Modern light industrial units with room for mezzanines, suitable for trade, warehouse, or distribution, featuring precast concrete panels, ample parking, and NBN ready.
Revitalisation and upgrade of Jesmond Public School, focusing on the redevelopment of Block J into a state-of-the-art administration and staff space, and the construction of a new canteen building.
An upgrade to the Jesmond Central shopping centre to enhance the shopping experience with a series of modern upgrades, including entry statements, signage, external dining precinct, bathroom amenities, and other aesthetic improvements.
Major dual-lane road upgrades along Longworth Avenue and Minmi Road in Wallsend. The project includes widening to four lanes, intersection improvements, cycling and pedestrian connections, and stormwater upgrades. Daracon is the principal contractor. Works commenced in March 2025 and are expected to complete in late 2026.
The 3.4 km Rankin Park to Jesmond section is the fifth and final stage of the Newcastle Inner City Bypass. Construction has reached a major milestone with the bypass alignment fully connected and all major bridges completed.
A 5-storey apartment development in Wallsend town centre providing 28 residential dwellings. The project features low-rise construction with 50 car spaces and is positioned to take advantage of local amenities and transport connections.
The $835 million John Hunter Health and Innovation Precinct is a major redevelopment of the John Hunter and John Hunter Children's Hospitals. The centerpiece is a new seven-storey Acute Services Building delivering an expanded Emergency Department, 22 operating theatres, increased ICU capacity, and specialised care units.
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 26 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 2, 2026 9, 2027 7, 2028 2, 2029 0, 2030 1, 2031 2, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 2, 2036 1. 27 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 151 substantial development applications lodged in and around Shortland - Jesmond over the past 5 years, 76 in the last 12 months; 23 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 3, 2022 18, 2023 9, 2024 27, 2025 21, 2026 (to Oct) 73.
Key application 33 Shearwater Drive, Shortland Aged Care | $92m | 365 dwellings Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 151 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 76 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 4.7 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 58th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 62 | ABS building approvals | 66th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 61 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 23 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 include: Shortland Waters Retirement Village (Construction); 9 Gothic Street Student Accommodation (Approved); Callaghan Campus Heart (Completed); 93 Blue Gum Road Co-Living Development (Approved); and Light Industrial Unit Development, Jesmond NSW (Proposed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 spans multiple sectors including Education & Training, Residential Development, and Environmental & Disaster Management, among others.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Shortland - Jesmond among the top 21% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 area has seen 98 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Shortland - Jesmond SA2's current population of 14,429 has been supported by 62 approvals on average over recent years.
The Shortland - Jesmond SA2 has seen 4.7 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 368 people in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Shortland - Jesmond SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 62, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 has grown by approximately 1,714 people, while 308 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 5.6 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
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.
Shortland - Jesmond 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 | 14,429 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +14.6% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,135 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 54th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +2.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 12,593 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 1,836 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +3.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +2.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 12.71 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 was estimated to be approximately 14,429 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 14,339 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The shortland - jesmond sa2 has added approximately 1,836 people and shown a 14.58% increase from the 12,593 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 is estimated at 1,135 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 2.2% per annum.
Population growth in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (97.0%), Natural increase (3.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 97.0% of overall population gains.
Shortland - Jesmond hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 1% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 27 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 1st percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 10.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 12.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 52.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 49.4% | 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 | 28 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 7.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 28.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 24.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 6.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 6.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 4.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 4.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 at 27 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 28 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 27 years as at August 2026, Shortland - Jesmond is 16 years younger than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 11 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 28.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 4.6% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional NSW. The most over-represented age groups are 15-24 year-olds (28.2% vs 11.8%) and 25-34 year-olds (24.4% vs 11.5%). The most under-represented age groups are 65-74 year-olds (4.6% vs 12.3%) and 55-64 year-olds (6.0% vs 12.4%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 12.3% of the population in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 10.2% of the population in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 79% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $53,224 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 26th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $61,391 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,325 | 2021 Census, weekly | 21st percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $575 | 2021 Census, weekly | 9th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 10.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,600 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 29.1% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 is approximately $56,620. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $53,224.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 is approximately $65,308. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $61,391.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 is approximately $56,620 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $53,224 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 is approximately $65,308 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $61,391 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Shortland - Jesmond SA2's households (~32.8% / 1,396 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 32.8% 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 Shortland - Jesmond SA2 is $1,325/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 is $1,600/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 is $575/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Shortland - Jesmond SA2's median income among taxpayers is $53,224, with an average of $61,391. This is below the national average, and compares to Regional NSW's median of $55,733 and average of $69,112. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $56,620 (median) and $65,308 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 is $4,474 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The shortland - jesmond sa2's disposable income is $4,474 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Shortland - Jesmond face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 8% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 7.6% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 63.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 7,440 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 14,627 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 8,056 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 has approximately 7,440 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 7.6%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 stands at 7.6%, which is 3.5 percentage points above Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (18.6% of employment), retail trade (14.8%), and accommodation & food (13.0%). Other significant employers include education & training and construction.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Shortland - Jesmond 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 Shortland - Jesmond SA2 is 63.7%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate leading the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional NSW.
The shortland - jesmond sa2 shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 13.0% of the local workforce compared to 7.8% across Regional NSW. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The shortland - jesmond sa2's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 4.8% decline, ranking 33rd out of 37 regions nationally.
Shortland - Jesmond faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 15.4% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 7.2% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 24.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 24.5% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 7.9% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 43.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 45.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 26.2% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 7.2% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 4.7% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
24.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
43.6% of people aged 15 and over in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The shortland - jesmond sa2 ranks in the 19th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 are: Certificate (24.5%), Bachelor Degree (15.4%), Advanced Diploma (7.9%).
45.7% of the population in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 7.2% in primary school, 4.7% in secondary school, 26.2% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 is 935, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 7 schools within the Shortland - Jesmond SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,524 students.
The shortland - jesmond sa2 includes 4 primary schools, 2 secondary schools, 1 combined school.
Shortland - Jesmond features high concentrations of group households and lone person households but relatively few family households, 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 | 30.4% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 18.9% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 23.3% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 12.3% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 12.7% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 4,256 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 4,877 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 56.8% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.2 per family | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 had 4,256 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 14.6% to an estimated 4,877 households today.
The average household size in the Shortland - Jesmond 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 56.8% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (30.4%), group households (12.7%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,417 family households, couples with children account for 18.9% of all households, couples without children at home 23.3%, and single parent families 12.3%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Group households are notably over-represented at 12.7% (versus 3.3% in Regional NSW). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 56.8% compared to 68.8% in Regional NSW. The prevalence of shared households suggests a younger demographic or affordability considerations.
Families in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 have an average of 1.2 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 27.0% of the adult population are currently married, while 58.3% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 30.4% of all households in the Shortland - Jesmond 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 12.7% of households, above the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Shortland - Jesmond was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 25.9% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 22.9% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 77.1% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 73.3% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 74.1% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 3.8% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
Shortland - Jesmond was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 25.9% of its population born overseas and 22.9% speaking a language other than English at home.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Shortland - Jesmond are Australian, comprising 26.4% of the population, English, comprising 26.2% of the population, and Other, comprising 12.5% of the population, which is substantially higher than Regional NSW's 4.8%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Macedonian is notably overrepresented at 0.4% of Shortland - Jesmond (vs 0.4% across Regional NSW), Samoan at 0.3% (vs 0.1%) and Australian Aboriginal at 3.8% (vs 4.6%).
25.9% of the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
22.9% of the population in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
3.8% of the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
73.3% of the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Shortland - Jesmond 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 | 54.0% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 21.7% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 65.8% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,700 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 39th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 24.3% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 23.9% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $365 | 2021 Census, weekly | 48th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 27.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 91st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 29.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 87th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.9 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
In the Shortland - Jesmond SA2, 21.7% of homes are owned outright, 24.3% are owned with a mortgage, and 54.0% are rented.
According to the latest data, 65.8% of dwellings in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 are houses.
In the Shortland - Jesmond SA2, 10.2% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 23.9% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 stands at 21.7%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 is $1,700, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 is $1,267, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Shortland - Jesmond SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 29.6% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 27.5% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 is 0.9, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 29.6% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 27.5% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 consists of 65.8% detached houses, 23.9% semi-detached dwellings, 10.2% apartments, and 0.2% other dwelling types.
Housing in Shortland - Jesmond consumes approximately 22.1% of median household income ($5,737 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Shortland - Jesmond show attached dwellings contributing 67% of approvals compared to 34% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 33% of applications versus 66% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Health performance in Shortland - Jesmond is a key challenge relative to locations nationally with a range of health conditions having marked impacts on both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 48.6% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 18th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 66.0% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.6% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 72.1% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.6% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
Around 48.6% of people in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Shortland - Jesmond SA2, 5.6% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
9.4% of people in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.2% of the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.3% of people in the Shortland - Jesmond SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Shortland - Jesmond SA2, 48.6% 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 high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 86 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 86th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 121 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 80th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 4,705 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 75th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 119 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 75 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.2 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 17.0% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 121 public transport stops within the Shortland - Jesmond SA2.
The Shortland - Jesmond SA2 has 4,705 weekly trips across 75 routes, averaging 672 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 141 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 531 m away and the nearest school 543 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 121 stops nearby, 4,705 weekly trips, access rating 86 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 98 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 98th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 531 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 543 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 633 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.7 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 4 long day care centres with 239 places in Shortland - Jesmond, about 3.0 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 Shortland - Jesmond 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 Shortland - Jesmond.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Shortland - Jesmond among the top 21% of areas assessed nationwide.
Shortland - Jesmond ranks in the 58th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Shortland - Jesmond's established property market has recorded 254 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 94% residential, 5% commercial and 1% vacant land transactions.
Shortland - Jesmond lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Shortland - Jesmond hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 1% of areas nationwide.
Income figures position the area below 79% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
Employment conditions in Shortland - Jesmond face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 8% of areas assessed nationally.
Shortland - Jesmond faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Shortland - Jesmond features high concentrations of group households and lone person households but relatively few family households, with an average household size in line with Regional NSW.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Shortland - Jesmond was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Shortland - Jesmond displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional NSW.
Health performance in Shortland - Jesmond is a key challenge relative to locations nationally with a range of health conditions having marked impacts on both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is high 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.
Shortland - Jesmond has an estimated 14,429 residents, up 14.6% since the 2021 Census, with 9 projects tracked in Shortland - Jesmond.
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 Shortland - Jesmond.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Sep 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 (111031231). 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 Shortland - Jesmond 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 Shortland - Jesmond 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.
