Area profile · Rest of NSW
Tweed Heads has an estimated 21,653 residents, up 5.3% since the 2021 Census, with 18 projects tracked in Tweed Heads.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Tweed Heads Statistical Area (Lv2) lies 93 kilometres south-southeast of the Brisbane CBD. As at Aug 2026, AreaSearch estimates its population at around 21,653, an increase of 1,090 people (5.3%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 20,563 people. This change is inferred from the ABS estimated resident population (ERP) of 21,576 as of June 2025, together with 361 validated new addresses added since the Census date. The area has seen moderate population expansion and a high proportion of residents at retirement age and older, many living in lone person and group households. Income levels sit in the lower quartile. The market is distinguished by a strong apartment presence, high levels of semi-detached housing, a low average household size, an elevated share of residents aged 85 and over, a notable healthcare employment base and a strong offering of services.
Set on the scenic Tweed River, Tweed Heads in New South Wales is known for its natural beauty and vibrant coastal lifestyle, with stunning beaches, lush hinterland and an extensive network of river systems.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Tweed Heads Statistical Area (Lv2) lies 93 kilometres south-southeast of the Brisbane CBD. As at Aug 2026, AreaSearch estimates its population at around 21,653, an increase of 1,090 people (5.3%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 20,563 people. This change is inferred from the ABS estimated resident population (ERP) of 21,576 as of June 2025, together with 361 validated new addresses added since the Census date. The area has seen moderate population expansion and a high proportion of residents at retirement age and older, many living in lone person and group households. Income levels sit in the lower quartile. The market is distinguished by a strong apartment presence, high levels of semi-detached housing, a low average household size, an elevated share of residents aged 85 and over, a notable healthcare employment base and a strong offering of services.
Set on the scenic Tweed River, Tweed Heads in New South Wales is known for its natural beauty and vibrant coastal lifestyle, with stunning beaches, lush hinterland and an extensive network of river systems.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 17,013 in 2001 and 21,576 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 21,653 (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, 14.3%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $800 - 1,499, 28.2%.
Tweed Heads ranks in the 87th percentile nationally for sales activity and the 87th 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 Tweed Heads is $743 a week, up 6.2% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 28% above Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.9%.
28% above Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $526 in 2017, $856 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $350 in 2017, $668 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1104/2 Stuart Street, Tweed Heads NSW 2485 | $1,100,000 | 7 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 1/73 Jacaranda Avenue, Tweed Heads West NSW 2485 | $850,000 | 7 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 2/14 Endeavour Parade, Tweed Heads NSW 2485 | $550,000 | 7 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 49/6 Stuart Street, Tweed Heads NSW 2485 | $1,095,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 2/23 Kiata Parade, Tweed Heads NSW 2485 | $990,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 1055/20 Stuart Street, Tweed Heads NSW 2485 | $980,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 104/20 Binya Avenue, Tweed Heads NSW 2485 | $850,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 84 Broadwater Esplanade, Bilambil Heights NSW 2486 | $940,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 109 Peninsula Drive, Bilambil Heights NSW 2486 | $900,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 90 McAllisters Road, Bilambil Heights NSW 2486 | $1,680,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 47 residential sales recorded since 24 Aug 2026 (the latest settled 7 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 47, houses and units together, was $1,050,000 (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 | $743 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +6.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.9% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $1.34m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $903k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $1,050,000 | Median of the 47 most recent residential sales, settled 24 Aug 2026 to 7 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $856 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +8.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $668 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +7.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.4% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 4.0% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Tweed Valley | $796 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Tweed Valley, over 12 months | +7.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Richmond - Tweed | $754 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Richmond - Tweed, over 12 months | +6.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional NSW | $580 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional NSW, over 12 months | +6.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 257 tracked applications: 83 approved, 108 under assessment, 66 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 18 projects in Tweed Heads (2 under construction) and 148 more in the surrounding area.
Expansion of community facilities in Tweed Heads, including upgrades to the library, community centre, and new youth spaces under the Tweed Shire Community Facilities Plan to serve a growing population.
Redevelopment of the Point Danger Marine Rescue facility on the Tweed River mouth and headland. The project replaces aged operations infrastructure with a state-of-the-art radio communications base, emergency response coordination centre, and volunteer training amenities supporting the Coolangatta and Tweed maritime region.
An approved 907 million dollar mixed-use town centre renewal in the Tweed Heads CBD, designed to replace the existing single-level shopping mall with a new urban precinct on a 5 hectare site at the gateway to Tweed Heads.
A boutique residential land estate delivering 100 large elevated homesites averaging 1,200sqm on a 15.8ha site in Bilambil Heights, Tweed Shire. The masterplan includes a community park (Sceniq Park), walking path network, and design guidelines. Stage 1 is complete with settlements underway; Stage 2 is nearing completion; final homesites are now selling.
Proposed mixed-use redevelopment encompassing 89 residential apartments, ground-floor commercial and retail spaces, and community amenities. Designed by BDA Architecture and Lightwave Architecture along the Tweed River corridor, the project integrates modern sustainable design with river views.
Shop-top housing build-to-rent project delivering 34 apartments above ground-floor commercial tenancies on a 1,244 m2 site in central Tweed Heads. Council granted development consent in Aug 2024. Scheme includes basement parking and a rooftop terrace with pool and sustainability features.
Proposed multi-storey social housing development by Homes NSW at 25-27 Boyd Street. Delivered as part of the Northern Rivers Flood Recovery Program, the project will feature 80 dwellings (46 one-bedroom and 34 two-bedroom units), accommodating around 120 new tenants.
Mosaic Property Group's boutique beachfront residential development comprising 14 luxury apartments across seven levels. Designed by SJB Architects, the building incorporates dual-apartment floor plates, private entry lobbies, direct beach access, and communal swimming and barbecue amenities on a prime corner beachfront site.
A 14-storey mixed-use tower with 72 apartments, ground-floor retail, waterside walkways, and basement parking with 93 spaces. The Turner-designed development replaces three houses in the Boat Harbour Precinct, offering river and city views, rooftop facilities, and new pedestrian links to the waterfront.
Tweed Shire Council is widening 6.1km of Tweed Coast Road from Morton Street, Chinderah to Grand Parade, Casuarina from two to four lanes, delivered in six sections.
Quay Grand Apartments is a luxury residential development featuring two 14-storey towers with 122 apartments, ranging from 1 to 4 bedrooms. The project offers premium finishes and resort-style communal amenities including a swimming pool, fully equipped gym, and sauna.
A boutique collection of 53 architecturally designed 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments in a nine-storey residential flat building, setting a new benchmark in contemporary coastal luxury with flowing layouts, rich materiality, and a timeless aesthetic.
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 91 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 6, 2026 31, 2027 28, 2028 13, 2029 2, 2030 4, 2031 0, 2032 4, 2033 1, 2034 0, 2035 2. 27 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 257 substantial development applications lodged in and around Tweed Heads over the past 5 years, 178 in the last 12 months; 108 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 12, 2022 27, 2023 13, 2024 13, 2025 16, 2026 (to Oct) 176.
Key application 16-32 Wharf Street, Tweed Heads Retail | $907m | 1371 dwellings Approved
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 257 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 178 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 3.0 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 40th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 64 | ABS building approvals | 67th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 83 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 108 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Tweed Heads SA2 include: Mistral Residences (Approved); River Terrace Mixed-Use Development (Approved); Sceniq Bilambil Heights (Construction); Edify Australia Build-To-Rent Development (Approved); and Tweed Heads Social Housing Development (Under Assessment). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Tweed Heads SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Tourism, among others.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Tweed Heads among the top 18% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Tweed Heads SA2 area has seen 222 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Tweed Heads SA2's current population of 21,653 has been supported by 64 approvals on average over recent years.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Tweed Heads SA2's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 64, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Tweed Heads SA2 has grown by approximately 1,190 people, while 319 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 3.7 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Tweed Heads has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 21,653 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +5.3% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Population density | 216 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 34th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 20,563 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 1,090 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 100.43 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Tweed Heads SA2 was estimated to be approximately 21,653 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 21,576 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The tweed heads sa2 has added approximately 1,090 people and shown a 5.30% increase from the 20,563 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Tweed Heads SA2 is estimated at 216 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Tweed Heads SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.9% per annum.
Population growth in the Tweed Heads SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (54.7%), Interstate migration (45.3%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 54.7% of overall population gains.
Tweed Heads hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 48 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 89th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 29.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 14.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 20.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 47.0% | 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 | 5.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 9.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 8.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 14.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 10.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 4.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Tweed Heads SA2 at 48 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 49 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 48 years as at August 2026, Tweed Heads is 5 years older than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 10 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Tweed Heads SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 10.8% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Tweed Heads SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 8.9% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Tweed Heads SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional NSW. The most over-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (4.3% vs 2.9%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 14.6% of the population in the Tweed Heads SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 29.5% of the population in the Tweed Heads SA2 as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 84% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $50,953 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 18th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $63,775 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,182 | 2021 Census, weekly | 12th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $656 | 2021 Census, weekly | 20th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 11.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,530 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 33.7% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Tweed Heads SA2 is approximately $54,204. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $50,953.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Tweed Heads SA2 is approximately $67,844. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $63,775.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Tweed Heads SA2 is approximately $54,204 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $50,953 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Tweed Heads SA2 is approximately $67,844 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $63,775 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Tweed Heads SA2's households (~28.2% / 2,430 households) is the $800 - 1,499 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Tweed Heads SA2 is the $800 - 1,499 group, representing about 28.2% 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 Tweed Heads SA2 is $1,182/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Tweed Heads SA2 is $1,530/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Tweed Heads SA2 is $656/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Tweed Heads SA2's median income among taxpayers is $50,953, with an average of $63,775. This is lower than average on a national basis, 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 $54,204 (median) and $67,844 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Tweed Heads SA2 is $4,127 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The tweed heads sa2's disposable income is $4,127 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Tweed Heads has been broadly consistent with national averages.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.6% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 54.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 9,718 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 20,777 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 10,078 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Tweed Heads SA2 has approximately 9,718 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.6%. 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 Tweed Heads SA2 stands at 3.6%, which is 0.6 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 Tweed Heads SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (19.6% of employment), construction (13.3%), and retail trade (11.0%). Other significant employers include accommodation & food and education & training.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Tweed Heads 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 Tweed Heads SA2 is 54.3%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The tweed heads sa2 shows notable specialisation in construction, which employs 13.3% of the local workforce compared to 9.7% across Regional NSW. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The tweed heads 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 experienced 7.7% growth, ranking 9th out of 37 regions nationally.
Educational attainment in Tweed Heads sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 14.9% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.8% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 20.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 29.6% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.0% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.6% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 38.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 25.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 4.0% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 8.2% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.5% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
20.7% of people aged 15 and over in the Tweed Heads SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
38.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Tweed Heads SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The tweed heads sa2 ranks in the 49th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Tweed Heads SA2 are: Certificate (29.6%), Bachelor Degree (14.9%), Advanced Diploma (11.6%).
25.7% of the population in the Tweed Heads SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.2% in primary school, 6.5% in secondary school, 4.0% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Tweed Heads SA2 is 1017, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 4 schools within the Tweed Heads SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 993 students.
The tweed heads sa2 includes 4 primary schools.
Tweed Heads features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.2 people | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 34.3% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 19.3% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 29.3% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 11.4% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 4.8% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 8,627 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 9,084 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 61.0% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Tweed Heads SA2 had 8,627 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 5.3% to an estimated 9,084 households today.
The average household size in the Tweed Heads SA2 is 2.2 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 61.0% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (34.3%), group households (4.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 5,262 family households, couples with children account for 19.3% of all households, couples without children at home 29.3%, and single parent families 11.4%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Tweed Heads SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 34.3% (versus 27.9% in Regional NSW). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 61.0% compared to 68.8% in Regional NSW. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Tweed Heads 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 40.5% of the adult population are currently married, while 33.9% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 34.3% of all households in the Tweed Heads SA2, higher than the average for Regional NSW of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 4.8% of households, above the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Tweed Heads 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 | 20.1% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 7.4% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 92.6% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 84.5% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 79.9% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 2.9% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
Tweed Heads was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 84.5% of its population being citizens, 79.9% born in Australia, and 92.6% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Tweed Heads was found to be Christianity, which makes up 52.5% of people in Tweed Heads. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 1.2% of the population, compared to 0.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Tweed Heads are English, comprising 32.1% of the population, Australian, comprising 25.7% of the population, and Irish, comprising 10.3% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Maori is notably overrepresented at 0.7% of Tweed Heads (vs 0.3% across Regional NSW), Scottish at 8.5% (vs 8.0%) and New Zealand at 0.8% (vs 0.4%).
20.1% of the Tweed Heads SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
7.4% of the population in the Tweed Heads SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
2.9% of the Tweed Heads SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
84.5% of the Tweed Heads SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Tweed Heads displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 29.8% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 41.8% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 48.9% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,733 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 28.4% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 22.1% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $390 | 2021 Census, weekly | 58th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 33.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 98th 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 Tweed Heads SA2, 41.8% of homes are owned outright, 28.4% are owned with a mortgage, and 29.8% are rented.
According to the latest data, 48.9% of dwellings in the Tweed Heads SA2 are houses.
In the Tweed Heads SA2, 28.4% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 22.1% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Tweed Heads SA2 stands at 41.8%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Tweed Heads SA2 is $1,733, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Tweed Heads SA2 is $995, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Tweed Heads SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 33.8% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 33.0% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Tweed Heads SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Tweed Heads SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 33.8% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 33.0% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Tweed Heads SA2 consists of 48.9% detached houses, 22.1% semi-detached dwellings, 28.4% apartments, and 0.5% other dwelling types.
Housing in Tweed Heads consumes approximately 19.4% of median household income ($5,118 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Tweed Heads show attached dwellings contributing 89% of approvals compared to 51% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 11% of applications versus 49% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Health performance in Tweed Heads is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 49.6% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 26th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 62.7% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 7.7% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 74.9% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.6% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
Around 49.6% of people in the Tweed Heads SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Tweed Heads SA2, 7.7% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
6.8% of people in the Tweed Heads SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.7% of the Tweed Heads SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.1% of people in the Tweed Heads SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Tweed Heads SA2, 49.6% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional NSW sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 52.2%.
Transport servicing is 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 | 49 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 49th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 173 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 90th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 1,797 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 47th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 125 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 62 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.1 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 14.5% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 173 public transport stops within the Tweed Heads SA2.
The Tweed Heads SA2 has 1,797 weekly trips across 62 routes, averaging 256 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 184 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 837 m away and the nearest pharmacy 1.1 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 173 stops nearby, 1,797 weekly trips, access rating 49 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 87 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 87th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 837 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest GP | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 2.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 3.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 3.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 3.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 3.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 4 long day care centres with 257 places in Tweed Heads, about 4.7 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 Tweed Heads 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 Tweed Heads.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Tweed Heads among the top 18% of areas assessed nationwide.
Tweed Heads ranks in the 56th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Tweed Heads's sought-after property market has recorded 518 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 95% residential, 3% commercial and 2% vacant land transactions.
Tweed Heads has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
Tweed Heads hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
Income figures position the area below 84% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
Employment performance in Tweed Heads has been broadly consistent with national averages.
Educational attainment in Tweed Heads sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
Tweed Heads features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
Tweed Heads ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Tweed Heads displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Tweed Heads is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Tweed Heads has an estimated 21,653 residents, up 5.3% since the 2021 Census, with 18 projects tracked in Tweed Heads.
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 Tweed Heads.
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 Sep 2026. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (112031254). 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 (Sep 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Tweed Heads 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 Tweed Heads 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.
