Area profile · Rest of NSW
Tweed Heads South has an estimated 8,653 residents, up 2.7% since the 2021 Census, with 162 projects tracked in the area around Tweed Heads South.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Tweed Heads South Statistical Area (Lv2) occupies an advantageous geographic position situated 95 kilometres south-southeast from Brisbane CBD in northern New South Wales. Famed for its coastal scenery, golden beaches, waterways, and hinterland access, the area combines relaxed lifestyle amenities with vibrant retail hubs, picturesque parks, and a pleasant year-round climate. Demographically, the locality is characterised by an older population structure, displaying a notable presence of residents aged 75 to 84 as well as those aged 85 and over, with lone person households representing a substantial share of the residential base. The local economy is underpinned by a prominent retail trade workforce, alongside lower-quartile income levels and lower average educational attainment profiles.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Tweed Heads South Statistical Area (Lv2) occupies an advantageous geographic position situated 95 kilometres south-southeast from Brisbane CBD in northern New South Wales. Famed for its coastal scenery, golden beaches, waterways, and hinterland access, the area combines relaxed lifestyle amenities with vibrant retail hubs, picturesque parks, and a pleasant year-round climate. Demographically, the locality is characterised by an older population structure, displaying a notable presence of residents aged 75 to 84 as well as those aged 85 and over, with lone person households representing a substantial share of the residential base. The local economy is underpinned by a prominent retail trade workforce, alongside lower-quartile income levels and lower average educational attainment profiles.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 5,994 in 2001 and 8,637 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 8,653 (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, 14.4%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $400 - 799, 33%.
Tweed Heads South ranks in the 93rd percentile nationally for amenities and the 78th for sales activity.
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 South is $768 a week, up 7.4% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 32% above Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 4.5%.
32% above Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $501 in 2017, $882 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $316 in 2017, $616 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4/12 Dry Dock Road, Tweed Heads South NSW 2486 | $665,000 | 26 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 2/6 Eastlakes Drive, Tweed Heads South NSW 2486 | $900,000 | 22 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 22 Altair Street, Tweed Heads South NSW 2486 | $920,000 | 20 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 20 Robin Circuit, Tweed Heads South NSW 2486 | $1,200,000 | 16 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 37 The Hermitage, Tweed Heads South NSW 2486 | $1,190,000 | 16 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 6 Chardonnay Crescent, Tweed Heads South NSW 2486 | $1,040,000 | 16 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 12/2 Vintage Lakes Drive, Tweed Heads South NSW 2486 | $835,000 | 15 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 3 Cockatoo Place, Tweed Heads South NSW 2486 | $1,350,000 | 13 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 902/22 Kirkwood Road, Tweed Heads South NSW 2486 | $1,330,000 | 8 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 7/1 Harrier Street, Tweed Heads South NSW 2486 | $800,000 | 8 Oct 2026 | Unit |
The 10 most recent of the 44 residential sales recorded since 20 Jul 2026 (the latest settled 26 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 44, houses and units together, was $887,500 (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 | $768 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +7.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 4.5% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $1.18m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $875k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $887,500 | Median of the 44 most recent residential sales, settled 20 Jul 2026 to 26 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $882 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +8.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $616 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +12.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.8% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 3.8% | 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 168 tracked applications: 98 approved, 38 under assessment, 32 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 162 projects in and around Tweed Heads South, 41 of them under construction.
Construction of fifteen warehouse and light industry units, including demolition, landscaping, carparking and signage.
Rehabilitation of the foreshore along Terranora Creek, adjacent to Wyuna Road, Tweed Heads West. The $400,000 upgrade, funded by the NSW Government's Stronger Country Communities Program, includes the removal of old, unapproved, and unsafe structures, replacing them with rock walls to prevent erosion, installing two new stairs/ramps for community access…
Supported Independent Living (SIL) development providing 24 purpose-built disability accommodation units with onsite support services for NDIS participants in Tweed Heads South.
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.
Upgrade delivering 11 new permanent learning spaces, a new library, a new entrance, extended and refurbished preschool, a new canteen and OOSH facilities, refurbished administration areas, and improved playground, sports court and outdoor spaces. Construction was completed in September 2024.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The first stage of the 380 million AUD Kirra Point mixed-use precinct is complete, featuring 116 luxury apartments and the Kirra Point Holiday Apartments short-stay offering.
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.
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 87 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 5, 2026 29, 2027 27, 2028 13, 2029 2, 2030 4, 2031 0, 2032 4, 2033 1, 2034 0, 2035 2. 26 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 168 substantial development applications lodged in and around Tweed Heads South over the past 5 years, 58 in the last 12 months; 38 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 1, 2022 26, 2023 26, 2024 28, 2025 31, 2026 (to Nov) 56.
Key application 13-17 Corporation Circuit, Tweed Heads South Retail | $45m
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 168 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 58 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 4.0 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 33 | ABS building approvals | 45th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 98 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 38 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Tweed Heads South SA2 include: Rivendell Drive Warehouse and Light Industry Development (Under Assessment); Terranora Creek Foreshore Rehabilitation (Construction); Tweed Heads South Public School Upgrade (Completed); Tweed Heads South Supported Independent Living (Completed); and Edify Australia Build-To-Rent Development (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Tweed Heads South SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Transport & Logistics, and Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees a low level of activity in Tweed Heads South, placing the area among the bottom 21% of areas assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Tweed Heads South SA2 area has seen 15 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Tweed Heads South SA2's current population of 8,653 has been supported by 33 approvals on average over recent years.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Tweed Heads South SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 33, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the Tweed Heads South SA2 has grown by approximately 215 people, while 167 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.3 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.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Tweed Heads South reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 8,653 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +2.7% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,023 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 8,423 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 230 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 8.46 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Tweed Heads South SA2 was estimated to be approximately 8,653 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 8,637 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The tweed heads south sa2 has added approximately 230 people and shown a 2.73% increase from the 8,423 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Tweed Heads South SA2 is estimated at 1,023 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Tweed Heads South SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.4% per annum.
Population growth in the Tweed Heads South SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (50.9%), Interstate migration (49.1%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 50.9% of overall population gains.
Tweed Heads South ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 53 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 96th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 35.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 14.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 18.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 41.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 54 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 9.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 8.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 9.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 10.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 9.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 11.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 14.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 14.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 7.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Tweed Heads South SA2 at 53 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 54 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 53 years as at August 2026, Tweed Heads South is 10 years older than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 15 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Tweed Heads South SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 14.0% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Tweed Heads South SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 8.6% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Tweed Heads South SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional NSW. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (7.2% vs 2.9%) and 75-84 year-olds (14.0% vs 8.2%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 14.3% of the population in the Tweed Heads South SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 35.6% of the population in the Tweed Heads South SA2 as at August 2026.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 5% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $47,001 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 8th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $58,331 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $949 | 2021 Census, weekly | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $552 | 2021 Census, weekly | 6th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 7.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,350 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 42.3% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Tweed Heads South SA2 is approximately $50,000. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $47,001.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Tweed Heads South SA2 is approximately $62,053. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $58,331.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Tweed Heads South SA2 is approximately $50,000 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $47,001 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Tweed Heads South SA2 is approximately $62,053 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $58,331 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Tweed Heads South SA2's households (~33.0% / 1,223 households) is the $400 - 799 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Tweed Heads South SA2 is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 33.0% 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 South SA2 is $949/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Tweed Heads South SA2 is $1,350/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Tweed Heads South SA2 is $552/wk.
The Tweed Heads South SA2's income level is below the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Tweed Heads South SA2's median income among taxpayers is $47,001 and the average income stands at $58,331, 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 $50,000 (median) and $62,053 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Tweed Heads South SA2 is $3,218 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The tweed heads south sa2's disposable income is $3,218 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Tweed Heads South has been below expectations when compared to most other areas nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 4.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 45.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 3,232 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 10,390 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 3,397 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Tweed Heads South SA2 has approximately 3,232 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.9%. 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 South SA2 stands at 4.9%, which is 0.7 percentage points above Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Tweed Heads South SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (19.9% of employment), accommodation & food (13.7%), and retail trade (13.2%). Other significant employers include construction and education & training.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Tweed Heads South 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 South SA2 is 45.9%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. The relatively low participation rate may indicate limited job opportunities or demographic factors affecting workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The tweed heads south sa2 shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 13.7% of the local workforce compared to 7.8% across Regional NSW. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The tweed heads south 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.
Tweed Heads South faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 9.8% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 13.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 29.2% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.3% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 46.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 23.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 7.7% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.5% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
13.6% of people aged 15 and over in the Tweed Heads South SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
46.8% of people aged 15 and over in the Tweed Heads South SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The tweed heads south sa2 ranks in the 7th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Tweed Heads South SA2 are: Certificate (29.2%), Advanced Diploma (10.3%), Bachelor Degree (9.8%).
23.0% of the population in the Tweed Heads South SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 7.7% in primary school, 6.5% in secondary school, 3.0% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Tweed Heads South SA2 is 915, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 8 schools within the Tweed Heads South SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,654 students.
The tweed heads south sa2 includes 3 primary schools, 3 secondary schools, 2 combined schools.
Tweed Heads South 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 | 2.1 people | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 37.9% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 15.4% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 28.0% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 12.9% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 4.5% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 3,711 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 3,812 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 57.6% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.8 per family | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Tweed Heads South SA2 had 3,711 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 2.7% to an estimated 3,812 households today.
The average household size in the Tweed Heads South SA2 is 2.1 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 57.6% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (37.9%), group households (4.5%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,138 family households, couples with children account for 15.4% of all households, couples without children at home 28.0%, and single parent families 12.9%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Tweed Heads South SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 37.9% (versus 27.9% in Regional NSW). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 57.6% 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 South SA2 have an average of 1.8 children, matching the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 39.0% of the adult population are currently married, while 30.3% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 37.9% of all households in the Tweed Heads South 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 4.5% of households, above the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Tweed Heads South 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 | 21.1% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 7.6% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 92.4% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 87.1% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 78.9% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 4.7% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
Tweed Heads South was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 87.1% of its population being citizens, 78.9% born in Australia, and 92.4% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Tweed Heads South was found to be Christianity, which makes up 57.8% of people in Tweed Heads South. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Tweed Heads South are English, comprising 32.4% of the population, Australian, comprising 26.6% of the population, and Irish, comprising 8.7% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Australian Aboriginal is notably overrepresented at 4.7% of Tweed Heads South (vs 4.6% across Regional NSW), New Zealand at 0.9% (vs 0.4%) and Maori at 0.7% (vs 0.3%).
21.1% of the Tweed Heads South SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
7.6% of the population in the Tweed Heads South SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
4.7% of the Tweed Heads South SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
87.1% of the Tweed Heads South SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Tweed Heads South displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 30.5% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 47.5% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 50.7% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,733 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 21.9% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 33.5% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $390 | 2021 Census, weekly | 58th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 41.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 99th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 42.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 99th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Tweed Heads South SA2, 47.5% of homes are owned outright, 21.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 30.5% are rented.
According to the latest data, 50.7% of dwellings in the Tweed Heads South SA2 are houses.
In the Tweed Heads South SA2, 13.8% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 33.5% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Tweed Heads South SA2 stands at 47.5%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Tweed Heads South SA2 is $1,733, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Tweed Heads South SA2 is $894, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Tweed Heads South SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 42.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 41.1% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Tweed Heads South SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Tweed Heads South SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 42.1% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 41.1% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Tweed Heads South SA2 consists of 50.7% detached houses, 33.5% semi-detached dwellings, 13.8% apartments, and 2.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Tweed Heads South consumes approximately 21.8% of median household income ($4,109 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 South show attached dwellings contributing 25% of approvals compared to 49% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 75% of applications versus 51% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health performance in Tweed Heads South is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across the board, though to a considerably higher degree among older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 47.2% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 11th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 54.0% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 12.2% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 69.7% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.6% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
Around 47.2% of people in the Tweed Heads South SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Tweed Heads South SA2, 12.2% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
8.2% of people in the Tweed Heads South SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.6% of the Tweed Heads South SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
6.7% of people in the Tweed Heads South SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Tweed Heads South SA2, 47.2% 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 good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 64 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 64th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 75 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 59th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 1,939 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 49th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 115 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 58 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 0.9 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 10.6% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 75 public transport stops within the Tweed Heads South SA2.
The Tweed Heads South SA2 has 1,939 weekly trips across 58 routes, averaging 277 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 182 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 526 m away and the nearest child care centre 708 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 75 stops nearby, 1,939 weekly trips, access rating 64 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 93 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 526 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 708 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 747 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 797 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 861 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 3.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 4 long day care centres with 375 places in Tweed Heads South, about 1.2 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 Tweed Heads South 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 South.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees a low level of activity in Tweed Heads South, placing the area among the bottom 21% of areas assessed nationally.
Tweed Heads South ranks in the 78th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Tweed Heads South's established property market has recorded 217 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 84% residential, 14% commercial and 1% vacant land transactions.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Tweed Heads South reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Tweed Heads South ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 5% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Tweed Heads South has been below expectations when compared to most other areas nationally.
Tweed Heads South faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Tweed Heads South 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 South ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Tweed Heads South displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Tweed Heads South is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across the board, though to a considerably higher degree among older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is good 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 South has an estimated 8,653 residents, up 2.7% since the 2021 Census, with 162 projects tracked in the area around Tweed Heads South.
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 South.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Oct 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Aug 2026. Housing and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (112031552). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Tweed Heads South 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 South 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.
