Area profile · Rest of NSW
Southern Highlands has an estimated 7,587 residents, up 4.6% since the 2021 Census, with 130 projects tracked in the area around Southern Highlands.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Southern Highlands Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 119 kilometres southwest from Sydney CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at around 7,587 as of Aug 2026, following an increase of 337 people (4.6%) since the 2021 Census count of 7,250 people. The estimate draws on the ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of 7,453 as of June 2025 and 214 Validated New Addresses recorded since the Census date. The area is characterised by high outright home ownership, a strong detached house presence, notable older age cohorts, and a substantial construction employment base.
Residents include a high proportion of mature and retirement aged Australians, many of them couples without children. The population has shown strong expansion patterns. The Southern Highlands in NSW, Australia, is known for rolling hills, historic towns, gardens, heritage-listed parks, art galleries, antique stores and classic architecture.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Southern Highlands Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 119 kilometres southwest from Sydney CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at around 7,587 as of Aug 2026, following an increase of 337 people (4.6%) since the 2021 Census count of 7,250 people. The estimate draws on the ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of 7,453 as of June 2025 and 214 Validated New Addresses recorded since the Census date. The area is characterised by high outright home ownership, a strong detached house presence, notable older age cohorts, and a substantial construction employment base.
Residents include a high proportion of mature and retirement aged Australians, many of them couples without children. The population has shown strong expansion patterns. The Southern Highlands in NSW, Australia, is known for rolling hills, historic towns, gardens, heritage-listed parks, art galleries, antique stores and classic architecture.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 5,551 in 2001 and 7,453 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 7,587 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 65 to 74, 17%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 27.8%.
Southern Highlands ranks in the 85th percentile nationally for employment drivers and the 77th 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 Southern Highlands is $652 a week, up 5.1% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 12% above Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 2.6%.
12% above Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses: $470 in 2017, $679 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21 Grice Drive, Bundanoon NSW 2578 | $2,500,000 | 21 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 25 Grice Drive, Bundanoon NSW 2578 | $2,250,000 | 19 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 1141 Joadja Road, Joadja NSW 2575 | $780,000 | 16 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 1630 Tugalong Road, Canyonleigh NSW 2577 | $1,300,000 | 15 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 39 Garland Road, Bundanoon NSW 2578 | $1,100,000 | 8 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 61 Conflict Street, Sutton Forest NSW 2577 | $3,150,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 24 Greasons Road, Bundanoon NSW 2578 | $1,800,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 3 Idolwood Ridge, Bundanoon NSW 2578 | $2,150,250 | 21 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 161 Teudts Road, Bundanoon NSW 2578 | $700,000 | 17 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 4 Rumsey Place, Bundanoon NSW 2578 | $885,000 | 16 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 41 residential sales recorded since 9 Jun 2026 (the latest settled 21 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 41, houses and units together, was $1,350,000 (a different set from the medians above). Source: NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch, to October 2026. Commercial, vacant land and nominal sales are left out. Unit means the address has a unit number; a street address has none.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $652 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +5.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 2.6% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $1.38m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $895k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $1,350,000 | Median of the 41 most recent residential sales, settled 9 Jun 2026 to 21 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $679 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +7.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 2.7% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Southern Highlands | $730 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Southern Highlands, over 12 months | +8.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional NSW | $580 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional NSW, over 12 months | +6.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, NSW | $715 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, NSW, over 12 months | +5.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 181 tracked applications: 52 approved, 43 under assessment, 86 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 130 projects in and around Southern Highlands, 44 of them under construction.
Woodside Bundanoon is an architecturally designed strata title village for active over-55s in the Southern Highlands, offering 2 and 3 bedroom single-level homes with indoor and outdoor entertaining areas, double-glazed windows, European appliances, and underfloor heating.
The Southern Highlands Innovation Park is a 1,053-hectare industrial employment precinct between Moss Vale and Berrima in NSW. Wingecarribee Shire Council is rezoning land along Berrima Road between Bowman Road and Gibbons/Lytton Road from E4 General Industrial to E3 Productivity Support. The planning proposal was publicly exhibited from 2 to 30 March 2026.
DA-approved medium density project in Moss Vale delivering 50 double-storey terraces and villas on a 2.1ha site at 603 Argyle Street. The approval, granted in early 2024 following a 2022 lodgement, provides for six free-standing homes fronting Argyle Street with townhouses and villas set behind, a central village green, and solar photovoltaic panels on each…
124 hectare masterplanned residential community in Moss Vale, Southern Highlands, developed by Novm. When complete it will have around 1,200 homes and land lots from 450sqm to 2,000sqm, with over 3.2 hectares of green open space and 7.7km of walkways and cycle paths. Stage 1 (143 land lots) sold out in 2021.
A master-planned residential community in Moss Vale, featuring over 1,200 prestige homes and land lots, more than 20% green open spaces, recreational areas, walking and cycling trails, and a village hub with specialty shops and potential childcare centre.
Residential townhouse development of 21 two-storey townhouses at 57-61 Throsby Street, Moss Vale, currently under construction. Located within about 1.5km of Moss Vale Station and the town centre in the Wingecarribee Shire, providing additional housing for the Southern Highlands.
Purple Cow Industries Pty Ltd proposes to construct and operate a resource recovery facility at 2 Bowman Road, Moss Vale, within the Wingecarribee Shire.
A $68 million upgrade to Moss Vale Station and Stabling Yard to achieve Disability Standards for Accessible Public Transport compliance and accommodate the new Regional Rail fleet. Works include three new lifts, footbridge upgrades, platform improvements, accessible parking, new kiss-and-ride zone, CCTV and lighting upgrades, and expanded stabling capacity.
A major bypass route designed to divert heavy vehicle and through-traffic from the Moss Vale town centre. The project includes a new grade-separated crossing over the Main Southern Railway Line to resolve height restrictions and flood-prone access issues while unlocking regional employment and housing growth.
100 kilowatt solar system installation - the shire's largest renewable energy project generating approximately 150,000 kWh annually, significantly reducing energy costs and carbon footprint.
Strategic village place plan prepared by Wingecarribee Shire Council with the Bundanoon community to guide future housing, main street design, public spaces, traffic and the local economy for Bundanoon village.
Boutique industrial strata unit complex with 10 units located in Moss Vale Enterprise Corridor. High-quality industrial development providing employment opportunities in strategic industrial precinct.
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 81 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2024 2, 2025 8, 2026 17, 2027 22, 2028 13, 2029 3, 2030 8, 2031 1, 2032 3, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 4. 26 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 181 substantial development applications lodged in and around Southern Highlands over the past 5 years, 149 in the last 12 months; 43 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 1, 2022 15, 2023 2, 2024 6, 2025 8, 2026 (to Nov) 149.
Key application 6-18 Erith Street, Bundanoon Mixed Use | $5.9m | 8 dwellings Refused
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 181 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 149 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 8.0 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 80th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 58 | ABS building approvals | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 52 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 43 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Southern Highlands SA2 include: Bundanoon Village Place Plan (Under Assessment); Woodside Bundanoon (Completed); Southern Highlands Innovation Park (SHIP) (Planning); Argyle Street Terraces, Moss Vale (Approved); and Ashbourne Moss Vale (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Southern Highlands SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Residential Development, and Transport & Logistics, among others.
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On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is slightly higher than average within Southern Highlands when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Southern Highlands SA2 area has seen 71 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Southern Highlands SA2's current population of 7,587 has been supported by 58 approvals on average over recent years.
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 Southern Highlands SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 58, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the Southern Highlands SA2 has grown by approximately 325 people, while 289 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.1 people added for each new dwelling approval. This suggests a balanced relationship between population growth and housing supply.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Population growth drivers in Southern Highlands are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 7,587 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +4.6% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 5 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 15th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 7,250 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 337 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 1,409.70 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Southern Highlands SA2 was estimated to be approximately 7,587 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 7,453 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The southern highlands sa2 has added approximately 337 people and shown a 4.65% increase from the 7,250 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Southern Highlands SA2 is estimated at 5 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Southern Highlands SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.2% per annum.
Population growth in the Southern Highlands SA2 is driven by: Interstate migration (69.2%), Overseas migration (30.8%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 69.2% of overall population gains.
Southern Highlands ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 53 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 95th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 32.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 13.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 16.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 43.3% | 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 | 53 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 10.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 10.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 6.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 9.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 15.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 17.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 12.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Southern Highlands SA2 at 53 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 53 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 53 years as at August 2026, Southern Highlands is 10 years older than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 15 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Southern Highlands SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 17.0% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Southern Highlands SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 6.5% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Southern Highlands SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional NSW. The most over-represented age groups are 75-84 year-olds (12.7% vs 8.2%) and 65-74 year-olds (17.0% vs 12.3%). The most under-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (6.5% vs 11.5%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 13.9% of the population in the Southern Highlands SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 32.6% of the population in the Southern Highlands SA2 as at August 2026.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $52,481 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $72,715 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,574 | 2021 Census, weekly | 39th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $757 | 2021 Census, weekly | 39th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 23.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,947 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 25.1% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Southern Highlands SA2 is approximately $55,829. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $52,481.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Southern Highlands SA2 is approximately $77,354. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $72,715.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Southern Highlands SA2 is approximately $55,829 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $52,481 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Southern Highlands SA2 is approximately $77,354 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $72,715 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Southern Highlands SA2's households (~27.8% / 776 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Southern Highlands SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 27.8% 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 Southern Highlands SA2 is $1,574/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Southern Highlands SA2 is $1,947/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Southern Highlands SA2 is $757/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Southern Highlands SA2's median income among taxpayers is $52,481, with an average of $72,715. This is slightly above average nationally, 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 $55,829 (median) and $77,354 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Southern Highlands SA2 is $5,911 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The southern highlands sa2's disposable income is $5,911 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Southern Highlands ranks among the strongest 15% of areas evaluated nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 1.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 55.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 3,538 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 6,803 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 3,583 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Southern Highlands SA2 has approximately 3,538 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 1.3%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. The area ranks in the top 25% nationally for employment performance, indicating a robust job market.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Southern Highlands SA2 stands at 1.3%, which is 2.9 percentage points below Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Southern Highlands SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are construction (13.7% of employment), health care & social assistance (12.3%), and professional & technical (9.4%). Other significant employers include education & training and retail trade.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Southern Highlands SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. 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 Southern Highlands SA2 is 55.0%, 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 southern highlands sa2 shows notable specialisation in professional & technical, which employs 9.4% of the local workforce compared to 5.1% 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 southern highlands sa2's employment market shows strong performance nationally, ranking in the top 25% of areas assessed by AreaSearch. This indicates robust employment conditions and economic vitality compared to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 13.1% growth, ranking 4th out of 37 regions nationally.
The educational profile of Southern Highlands ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 21.1% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 7.9% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 32.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 26.0% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.4% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 12.5% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 29.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 26.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.4% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.2% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.5% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
32.4% of people aged 15 and over in the Southern Highlands SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
29.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Southern Highlands SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The southern highlands sa2 ranks in the 67th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Southern Highlands SA2 are: Certificate (26.0%), Bachelor Degree (21.1%), Advanced Diploma (12.5%).
26.0% of the population in the Southern Highlands SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.2% in primary school, 7.5% in secondary school, 3.4% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Southern Highlands SA2 is 1032, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 4 schools within the Southern Highlands SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 287 students.
The southern highlands sa2 includes 4 primary schools.
Southern Highlands features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few 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 | 25.0% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 25.3% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 39.4% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 7.9% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 1.9% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,792 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 2,922 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 72.9% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Southern Highlands SA2 had 2,792 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 4.7% to an estimated 2,922 households today.
The average household size in the Southern Highlands 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 72.9% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (25.0%), group households (1.9%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,035 family households, couples with children account for 25.3% of all households, couples without children at home 39.4%, and single parent families 7.9%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Southern Highlands SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Southern Highlands SA2 have an average of 1.7 children, slightly below the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 53.7% of the adult population are currently married, while 26.7% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 25.0% of all households in the Southern Highlands 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 1.9% of households, below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Southern Highlands ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 18.9% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 5.2% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 94.8% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 89.8% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 81.1% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.2% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
Southern Highlands was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 81.1% of its population born in Australia, 89.8% being citizens, and 94.8% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Southern Highlands was found to be Christianity, which makes up 56.8% of people in Southern Highlands. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Southern Highlands are English, comprising 31.7% of the population, Australian, comprising 27.7% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 10.7% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Hungarian is notably overrepresented at 0.4% of Southern Highlands (vs 0.2% across Regional NSW), Irish at 10.3% (vs 8.8%) and Welsh at 0.6% (vs 0.5%).
18.9% of the Southern Highlands SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
5.2% of the population in the Southern Highlands SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
1.2% of the Southern Highlands SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
89.8% of the Southern Highlands SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Southern Highlands is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 12.8% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 54.6% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 98.0% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,108 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 32.6% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 0.7% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $400 | 2021 Census, weekly | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 25.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 30.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 91st percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the Southern Highlands SA2, 54.6% of homes are owned outright, 32.6% are owned with a mortgage, and 12.8% are rented.
According to the latest data, 98.0% of dwellings in the Southern Highlands SA2 are houses.
In the Southern Highlands SA2, 0.8% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 0.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Southern Highlands SA2 stands at 54.6%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Southern Highlands SA2 is $2,108, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Southern Highlands SA2 is $909, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Southern Highlands SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 30.9% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 25.4% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Southern Highlands SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Southern Highlands SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 30.9% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 25.4% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Southern Highlands SA2 consists of 98.0% detached houses, 0.7% semi-detached dwellings, 0.8% apartments, and 0.5% other dwelling types.
Housing in Southern Highlands consumes approximately 13.3% of median household income ($6,815 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Southern Highlands show attached dwellings contributing 3% of approvals compared to 2% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 97% of applications versus 98% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Southern Highlands's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with prevalence of common health conditions quite low across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 53.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 51st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 64.7% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.7% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 75.7% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.2% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
Around 53.7% of people in the Southern Highlands SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Southern Highlands SA2, 4.7% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
7.2% of people in the Southern Highlands SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.4% of the Southern Highlands SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.4% of people in the Southern Highlands SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Southern Highlands SA2, 53.7% 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 | 45 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 45th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 217 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 840 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 32nd percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 34 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 29 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.7 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 30.5% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 217 public transport stops within the Southern Highlands SA2.
The Southern Highlands SA2 has 840 weekly trips across 29 routes, averaging 120 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 267 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 4.2 km away and the nearest child care centre 6.7 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, 840 weekly trips, access rating 45 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 40 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 40th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 4.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 6.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 6.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 6.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 7.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 7.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 14.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 14.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 21.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 21.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 24.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA).
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Southern Highlands 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 Southern Highlands.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is slightly higher than average within Southern Highlands when compared nationally.
Southern Highlands has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 41st percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Southern Highlands's sought-after property market has recorded 193 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 80% residential, 9% commercial and 11% vacant land transactions.
Population growth drivers in Southern Highlands are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Southern Highlands ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
Employment performance in Southern Highlands ranks among the strongest 15% of areas evaluated nationally.
The educational profile of Southern Highlands ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Southern Highlands features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few single parent families, with an average household size in line with Regional NSW.
Southern Highlands ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Southern Highlands is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Southern Highlands's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with prevalence of common health conditions quite low across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Southern Highlands has an estimated 7,587 residents, up 4.6% since the 2021 Census, with 130 projects tracked in the area around Southern Highlands.
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 Southern Highlands.
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 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 (114021289). 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, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Southern Highlands 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 Southern Highlands 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.
