Area profile · Rest of NSW
Swansea - Caves Beach has an estimated 13,192 residents, up 5.0% since the 2021 Census, with 9 projects tracked in Swansea - Caves Beach.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Swansea - Caves Beach Statistical Area (Lv2), located 93 kilometres north-northeast from Sydney CBD, had an estimated population of approximately 13,192 as of Aug 2026. Compared with the 2021 Census count of 12,559 people, this represents growth of 633 people (5.0%), inferred from the ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of 13,149 as of June 2025 and 295 validated new addresses since the Census date. The area is characterised by strong outright home ownership, a notable construction employment base, a high share of retirement-aged and older residents, and strong population growth.
The coastal area is known for sandy beaches, surf conditions, limestone caves, rock formations and nature reserves, as well as local wildlife including dolphins and seabirds. Residents and visitors also value its friendly atmosphere, local shops and dining options. Population insights point to a substantial presence of older Australians, including residents aged 85 and over, alongside a pronounced 65 to 74yo demographic and substantial 75 to 84yo presence.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Swansea - Caves Beach Statistical Area (Lv2), located 93 kilometres north-northeast from Sydney CBD, had an estimated population of approximately 13,192 as of Aug 2026. Compared with the 2021 Census count of 12,559 people, this represents growth of 633 people (5.0%), inferred from the ABS Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of 13,149 as of June 2025 and 295 validated new addresses since the Census date. The area is characterised by strong outright home ownership, a notable construction employment base, a high share of retirement-aged and older residents, and strong population growth.
The coastal area is known for sandy beaches, surf conditions, limestone caves, rock formations and nature reserves, as well as local wildlife including dolphins and seabirds. Residents and visitors also value its friendly atmosphere, local shops and dining options. Population insights point to a substantial presence of older Australians, including residents aged 85 and over, alongside a pronounced 65 to 74yo demographic and substantial 75 to 84yo presence.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 11,100 in 2001 and 13,147 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 13,192 (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, 15.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 27.3%.
Swansea - Caves Beach ranks in the 75th percentile nationally for population growth and the 75th for amenities.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Swansea - Caves Beach is $669 a week, up 4.9% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 15% above Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.0%.
15% above Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses: $426 in 2017, $730 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 Kennedy Street, Swansea NSW 2281 | $1,285,000 | 29 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 20 Lake Forest Drive, Murrays Beach NSW 2281 | $1,120,000 | 29 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 12 Tawny Close, Murrays Beach NSW 2281 | $600,000 | 28 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 4 Moxey Street, Swansea NSW 2281 | $1,325,000 | 23 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 2/7 Caves Beach Road, Caves Beach NSW 2281 | $810,000 | 20 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 8 Seaside Circuit, Caves Beach NSW 2281 | $1,500,000 | 19 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 48 Flowers Drive, Catherine Hill Bay NSW 2281 | $1,525,000 | 16 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 4 Berncla Avenue, Nords Wharf NSW 2281 | $1,190,000 | 16 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 155 Park Avenue, Caves Beach NSW 2281 | $1,152,500 | 13 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 64 Lake Road, Swansea NSW 2281 | $1,080,000 | 13 Oct 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 47 residential sales recorded since 22 Jul 2026 (the latest settled 29 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 47, houses and units together, was $1,150,000 (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 | $669 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +4.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.0% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $1.25m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $830k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $1,150,000 | Median of the 47 most recent residential sales, settled 22 Jul 2026 to 29 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $730 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +0.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $535 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +11.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.2% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 3.3% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Lake Macquarie - East | $682 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Lake Macquarie - East, over 12 months | +8.4% | 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 199 tracked applications: 48 approved, 56 under assessment, 95 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Swansea - Caves Beach, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 9 projects in Swansea - Caves Beach (4 under construction) and 40 more in the surrounding area.
A new purpose-built ambulance station at 2-4 Kayuga Close, Caves Beach, part of the $615.5 million NSW Ambulance Infrastructure Program. The facility will have eight vehicle bays with a wash bay, administration and staff amenities including a gym, and logistics storage, serving Caves Beach, Swansea, Nords Wharf, Catherine Hill Bay, Murrays Beach and Cams…
A permanent dredging solution for Swansea Channel involving a Beaver 30 dredge vessel and a new sand transfer system to maintain safe navigation, pumping sand to Blacksmiths Beach. The project also includes upgrades to the Blacksmiths boat ramp.
A 3-storey residential building comprising 20 apartments (3 one-bedroom and 17 two-bedroom), a 27 square metre commercial kiosk, 21 car parking spaces, and 1,012 square metres of landscaping. The development received approval from Lake Macquarie Council in April 2024 despite community concerns regarding traffic, drainage, and overshadowing.
Stabilisation and repair of a 50-metre section of seawall at Belmont Street, Swansea, near Swansea Wharf. The seawall has been closed since 2021 due to instability caused by over-steepening of the underwater slope in Swansea Channel, with water velocity scouring beneath the wall creating a safety risk.
The construction of a new boardwalk, installation of public art, revegetation works, landscaping, new wayfinding and interpretive signage and an upgrade to the western car park.
Rehabilitation of endangered littoral rainforest ecosystem at Swansea Heads through targeted weed control, erosion management, and revegetation. The project addressed invasion of transformer weeds, urbanization impacts including rubbish dumping, and track erosion from unauthorized public access.
Multi-agency program to maintain safe navigation in Swansea Channel and deliver a permanent dredge and sand transfer system for Lake Macquarie. Funded by $10 million from the Australian Government and $6 million from the NSW Government, Lake Macquarie City Council has contracted Birdon Pty Ltd to supply a Beaver 30 dredge and associated sand transfer system.
A residential land development by The Hunter Group on the northern fringes of the heritage-listed Catherine Hill Bay. The project involves the release of new land lots in a coastal setting, surrounded by national parkland. The development includes the construction of internal roads, services, and a heritage pathway.
Coastal erosion management project addressing foreshore stabilisation at Pelican through rock groyne construction, sand nourishment, and protective structures.
A three storey residential building proposed at 1 Kent Place, Wangi Wangi in the Lake Macquarie City Council area. The project is planned to deliver 13 apartments above ground level parking, with 24 car spaces on a 933 square metre B1 Neighbourhood Centre corner site close to shops, services and the Wangi Wangi foreshore.
Council is rehabilitating the section of South Parade between Fassifern Road and Centre Avenue in Blackalls Park to improve safety and amenity for pedestrians, cyclists and motorists.
Multi-stage foreshore stabilisation and rehabilitation project protecting Belmont Bay and Village Bay from erosion, wave overtopping, tidal inundation and flooding.
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 24 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 9, 2027 6, 2028 4, 2029 3, 2030 0, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 1. 18 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 199 substantial development applications lodged in and around Swansea - Caves Beach over the past 5 years, 152 in the last 12 months; 56 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 4, 2022 31, 2023 7, 2024 2, 2025 4, 2026 (to Nov) 151.
Key application 11 Lake Road, Swansea Mixed Use | $6.0m | 28 dwellings Approved
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 199 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 152 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 7.3 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 76th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 92 | ABS building approvals | 77th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 48 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 56 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 include: Caves Beach Ambulance Station (Planning); Swansea Channel Permanent Dredging Solution (Construction); 42-44 Lake Road Residential Development (Approved); Swansea Seawall Stabilisation (Planning); and Swansea Channel Dredging and Sand Transfer System (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 spans multiple sectors including Environmental & Disaster Management, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Transport & Logistics, among others.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places Swansea - Caves Beach among the top 28% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 area has seen 151 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Swansea - Caves Beach SA2's current population of 13,192 has been supported by 92 approvals on average over recent years.
The Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 has seen 7.3 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 177 people in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 92, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 has grown by approximately 757 people, while 461 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.6 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 Swansea - Caves Beach 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 | 13,192 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +5.0% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 407 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 40th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.2% | 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 | 12,559 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 633 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.2% | 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 | 32.41 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 was estimated to be approximately 13,192 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 13,149 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The swansea - caves beach sa2 has added approximately 633 people and shown a 5.04% increase from the 12,559 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 is estimated at 407 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.2% per annum.
Population growth in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 is driven by: Interstate migration (63.7%), Overseas migration (36.3%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 63.7% of overall population gains.
Swansea - Caves Beach hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 49 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 89th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 29.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 15.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 18.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 44.1% | 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 | 49 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 6.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 10.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 14.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 15.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 10.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 at 49 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 49 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 49 years as at August 2026, Swansea - Caves Beach is 6 years older than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 11 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 15.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 6.9% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional NSW. The most under-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (6.9% vs 11.5%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 15.1% of the population in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 29.1% of the population in the Swansea - Caves Beach 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) | $56,494 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 38th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $72,841 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,419 | 2021 Census, weekly | 30th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $686 | 2021 Census, weekly | 25th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 20.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,836 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 29.5% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 is approximately $60,098. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $56,494.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 is approximately $77,488. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $72,841.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 is approximately $60,098 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $56,494 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 is approximately $77,488 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $72,841 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2's households (~27.3% / 1,358 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 27.3% of households. In comparison, Regional NSW's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 29.9% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 is $1,419/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 is $1,836/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 is $686/wk.
The Swansea - Caves Beach SA2's income level is just above the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Swansea - Caves Beach SA2's median income among taxpayers is $56,494 and the average income stands at $72,841, which compares to figures for Regional NSW's of $55,733 and $69,112 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $60,098 (median) and $77,488 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 is $5,130 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The swansea - caves beach sa2's disposable income is $5,130 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis reveals Swansea - Caves Beach recording weaker employment conditions than most comparable areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 4.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 55.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 5,876 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 11,321 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 6,141 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 has approximately 5,876 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.3%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 stands at 4.3%, which is broadly in line with Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (17.6% of employment), construction (13.6%), and education & training (10.9%). Other significant employers include retail trade and accommodation & food.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Swansea - Caves Beach 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 Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 is 55.2%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The swansea - caves beach sa2 shows notable specialisation in construction, which employs 13.6% of the local workforce compared to 9.7% across Regional NSW. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector.
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The swansea - caves beach sa2's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 4.8% decline, ranking 33rd out of 37 regions nationally.
Swansea - Caves Beach shows below-average educational performance compared to national benchmarks, though pockets of achievement exist.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 13.7% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.4% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 19.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 31.0% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.1% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 38.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 25.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.3% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.4% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.2% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
19.3% of people aged 15 and over in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
38.6% of people aged 15 and over in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The swansea - caves beach sa2 ranks in the 41th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 are: Certificate (31.0%), Bachelor Degree (13.7%), Advanced Diploma (11.1%).
25.2% of the population in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.4% in primary school, 7.2% in secondary school, 3.3% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 is 1001, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 5 schools within the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,606 students.
The swansea - caves beach sa2 includes 4 primary schools, 1 secondary school.
Swansea - Caves Beach features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few group 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 | 26.1% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 26.6% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 32.2% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 12.1% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 1.9% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 4,968 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 5,218 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 72.0% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.9 per family | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 had 4,968 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 5.0% to an estimated 5,218 households today.
The average household size in the Swansea - Caves Beach 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 72.0% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (26.1%), group households (1.9%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 3,577 family households, couples with children account for 26.6% of all households, couples without children at home 32.2%, and single parent families 12.1%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 have an average of 1.9 children, slightly above the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 50.5% of the adult population are currently married, while 28.4% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 26.1% of all households in the Swansea - Caves Beach 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.
Swansea - Caves Beach is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 11.5% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 3.7% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 96.3% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 93.4% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 88.5% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 3.3% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
Swansea - Caves Beach was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 88.5% of its population born in Australia, 93.4% being citizens, and 96.3% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Swansea - Caves Beach was found to be Christianity, which makes up 55.1% of people in Swansea - Caves Beach. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Swansea - Caves Beach are English, comprising 33.1% of the population, Australian, comprising 29.9% of the population, and Irish, comprising 8.8% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Welsh is notably overrepresented at 1.0% of Swansea - Caves Beach (vs 0.5% across Regional NSW), Scottish at 8.6% (vs 8.0%) and Maltese at 0.6% (vs 0.4%).
11.5% of the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
3.7% of the population in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
3.3% of the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
93.4% of the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Swansea - Caves Beach 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 | 22.0% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 45.5% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 79.9% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,080 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 70th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 32.5% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 8.6% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $360 | 2021 Census, weekly | 46th 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 | 33.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 96th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2, 45.5% of homes are owned outright, 32.5% are owned with a mortgage, and 22.0% are rented.
According to the latest data, 79.9% of dwellings in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 are houses.
In the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2, 11.1% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 8.6% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 stands at 45.5%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 is $2,080, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 is $1,019, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 33.8% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 25.4% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 33.8% 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 Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 consists of 79.9% detached houses, 8.6% semi-detached dwellings, 11.1% apartments, and 0.5% other dwelling types.
Housing in Swansea - Caves Beach consumes approximately 16.6% of median household income ($6,144 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Swansea - Caves Beach show attached dwellings contributing 13% of approvals compared to 20% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 87% of applications versus 80% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health in Swansea - Caves Beach: private health cover 53.7%, no long-term health condition 60.7%.
| 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 | 60.7% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 7.3% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 72.2% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.9% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
Around 53.7% of people in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2, 7.3% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
8.0% of people in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.9% of the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.2% of people in the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Swansea - Caves Beach 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 | 50 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 50th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 170 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 89th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 673 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 28th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 77 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 25 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.5 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 28.0% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 170 public transport stops within the Swansea - Caves Beach SA2.
The Swansea - Caves Beach SA2 has 673 weekly trips across 25 routes, averaging 96 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 190 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 1.0 km away and the nearest school 1.0 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 170 stops nearby, 673 weekly trips, access rating 50 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 75 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 75th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 1.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 2.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 7.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 8.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 8.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 11.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 2 long day care centres with 117 places in Swansea - Caves Beach, about 4.2 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 Swansea - Caves Beach 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 Swansea - Caves Beach.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places Swansea - Caves Beach among the top 28% of areas assessed nationwide.
Swansea - Caves Beach ranks in the 50th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Swansea - Caves Beach's sought-after property market has recorded 275 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 95% residential and 5% vacant land transactions.
Population growth drivers in Swansea - Caves Beach are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Swansea - Caves Beach hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
AreaSearch analysis reveals Swansea - Caves Beach recording weaker employment conditions than most comparable areas nationwide.
Swansea - Caves Beach shows below-average educational performance compared to national benchmarks, though pockets of achievement exist.
Swansea - Caves Beach features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few group households, with an average household size in line with Regional NSW.
Swansea - Caves Beach is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
Swansea - Caves Beach is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health in Swansea - Caves Beach: private health cover 53.7%, no long-term health condition 60.7%.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Swansea - Caves Beach has an estimated 13,192 residents, up 5.0% since the 2021 Census, with 9 projects tracked in Swansea - Caves Beach.
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 Swansea - Caves Beach.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Oct 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Oct 2026. Housing and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (111011212). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Oct 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Swansea - Caves Beach 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 Swansea - Caves Beach 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.
