Area profile · Rest of NSW
Walcha has an estimated 3,157 residents, up 0.4% since the 2021 Census, with 80 projects tracked in the area around Walcha.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Situated 313 kilometres north from Sydney CBD, the Walcha Statistical Area (Lv2) presents a distinctive rural community set against picturesque natural scenery, waterfalls, lush pastures, and rainforests. Renowned for a rich pastoral heritage centered on wool and livestock farming, the district complements its agricultural roots with a thriving arts community and outdoor exploration across neighbouring national parks. As of the latest population estimate date of Aug 2026, the area accommodates an estimated resident population (ERP) of approximately 3,157 individuals. This demonstrates minimal net movement compared to the 3,144 residents tallied at the 2021 Census, supported by the ongoing tracking of new addresses added since the Census.
Demographically and economically, the Walcha Statistical Area (Lv2) reflects modest income distribution alongside limited ongoing expansion.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 3,454 in 2001 and 3,131 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 3,157 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 65 to 74, 15.7%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 28.6%.
Walcha ranks in the 73rd percentile nationally for infrastructure drivers and the 64th for employment drivers.
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 Walcha is $400 a week, for the 12 months to Jun 2026 and 31% below Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 4.1%.
31% below Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses: $250 in 2017, $400 in 2026. A break means no rent was reported that year. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Yield is indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools.
| Address | Sale price | Settled | Address type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 224 Blomfield Road, Yarrowitch NSW 2354 | $275,000 | 29 Jul 2026 | Street address |
| 307 Blomfield Road, Yarrowitch NSW 2354 | $230,000 | 18 Jun 2026 | Street address |
| 4 Sempill Crescent, Walcha NSW 2354 | $580,000 | 15 Jun 2026 | Street address |
| 51 Darjeeling Road, Walcha NSW 2354 | $875,000 | 18 May 2026 | Street address |
| 20 Hill Street, Walcha NSW 2354 | $565,000 | 8 May 2026 | Street address |
| 16 Middle Street, Walcha NSW 2354 | $510,000 | 1 May 2026 | Street address |
| 13 South Street, Walcha NSW 2354 | $225,000 | 29 Apr 2026 | Street address |
| 186 Croudace Street, Walcha NSW 2354 | $580,000 | 15 Apr 2026 | Street address |
| 162 W Legge Street, Walcha NSW 2354 | $700,000 | 18 Mar 2026 | Street address |
| 66-68 Apsley Street, Walcha NSW 2354 | $360,000 | 18 Mar 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 28 residential sales recorded since 31 Oct 2025 (the latest settled 29 Jul 2026), newest first. The median of these 28, houses and units together, was $442,500 (a different set from the medians above). Source: NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch, to July 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 | $400 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 4.1% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $530k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median price, latest residential sales | $442,500 | Median of the 28 most recent residential sales, settled 31 Oct 2025 to 29 Jul 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $400 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gross rental yield, houses | 4.1% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Armidale | $461 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, New England and North West | $456 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional NSW | $582 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, NSW | $727 a week | 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 35 tracked applications: 13 approved, 2 under assessment, 20 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Walcha, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 80 projects in and around Walcha, 19 of them under construction.
The Skye Ridge Wind Farm is a proposed wind farm located 10km west of Walcha, NSW, in the New England REZ.
An $11 million drought-security project at Walcha, funded by the Albanese Labor Government and NSW Government, is complete with the…
The Winterbourne Wind Farm is a proposed renewable energy project near Walcha, NSW, featuring up to 118 wind turbines with a capacity of…
ACEN Australia Pty Ltd (ACEN) proposes to develop the Deeargee Solar and Battery Project, a large-scale grid connected solar and battery…
Neoen's Thunderbolt Energy Hub Stage 1 (Thunderbolt Wind Farm) is an approved wind farm with up to 32 turbines in the New England REZ near…
Stage Two of the Thunderbolt Energy Hub is a proposed wind energy expansion located south-east of the New England Highway.
A co-located renewable energy hub by Athena Energy Australia comprising a 257 MW DC (200 MW AC) solar farm with a 150 MW / 300 MWh battery…
The New England Solar Farm is a 720 MW energy generation project developed in two stages: Stage One delivers 400 MW of generation capacity…
A structure plan for residential expansion east of Kootingal to support population growth and housing diversity over the next 20 years.
Development of a major 215 MW solar photovoltaic energy generation plant combined with a 50 MW / 50 MWh battery energy storage system…
A proposed 5MW solar farm at Petersons Armidale Winery & Guesthouse, 347 Dangarsleigh Road, Armidale.
Enjoy the luxury of space and privacy in a prestigious landscape with the convenience of a sophisticated urban centre at Sandon Park…
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 39 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2023 1, 2024 0, 2025 0, 2026 10, 2027 14, 2028 5, 2029 2, 2030 3, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 2, 2035 2. 27 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 35 substantial development applications lodged in and around Walcha over the past 5 years, 21 in the last 12 months; 2 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 2, 2022 6, 2023 2, 2024 2, 2025 2, 2026 (to Oct) 21.
Key application 16W -26W Fitzroy Street, Walcha Retail | $843k
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 35 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 21 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 2.7 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 36th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 9 | ABS building approvals | 18th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 13 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 2 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Walcha SA2 include: Thunderbolt Energy Hub (Thunderbolt Wind Farm) (Approved); Thunderbolt Energy Hub - Stage Two (Planning); Skye Ridge Wind Farm (Planning); Walcha Drought Security Project and Sewerage Network Upgrade (Completed); and Winterbourne Wind Farm (Under Assessment). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Key infrastructure sectors impacting the Walcha SA2 include Energy and Environmental & Disaster Management.
While specific investment values are not publicly disclosed for all projects impacting the Walcha SA2, the area shows active development across multiple infrastructure categories within 15km.
The long-run outlook for infrastructure is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Walcha is exceptionally low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Walcha SA2 area has seen 7 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Walcha SA2's current population of 3,157 has been supported by 9 approvals on average over recent years.
The Walcha SA2 has seen 2.7 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 5.7 approvals in Regional NSW. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 915 people in the Walcha SA2, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Walcha SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 9, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the Walcha SA2 has seen 43 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential market oversupply.
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.
Walcha has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 3,157 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +0.4% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 6th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | -0.3% | 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 | 3,144 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 13 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | -0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | -0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 6,742.54 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Walcha SA2 was estimated to be approximately 3,157 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 3,131 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The walcha sa2 has added approximately 13 people and shown a 0.41% increase from the 3,144 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Walcha SA2 is estimated at 0 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Walcha SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of -0.4% per annum.
Population growth in the Walcha SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (100.0%), Natural increase (0.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 100.0% of overall population gains.
Walcha ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 49 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 91st percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 31.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 17.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 17.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 41.8% | 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 | 50 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 | 12.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 9.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 7.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 10.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 13.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 15.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 11.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 4.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Walcha SA2 at 49 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 50 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 49 years as at August 2026, Walcha is 6 years older than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 11 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Walcha SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 15.7% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Walcha SA2 compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 7.6% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Walcha SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional NSW. The most over-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (4.4% vs 2.9%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 17.5% of the population in the Walcha SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 31.1% of the population in the Walcha SA2 as at August 2026.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 8% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $43,913 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $51,296 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,211 | 2021 Census, weekly | 14th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $683 | 2021 Census, weekly | 25th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 11.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,567 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 35.4% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Walcha SA2 is approximately $46,715. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $43,913.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Walcha SA2 is approximately $54,569. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $51,296.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Walcha SA2 is approximately $46,715 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $43,913 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Walcha SA2 is approximately $54,569 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $51,296 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Walcha SA2's households (~28.6% / 351 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Walcha SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 28.6% 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 Walcha SA2 is $1,211/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Walcha SA2 is $1,567/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Walcha SA2 is $683/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the Walcha SA2 is lower than average on a national basis, with the median assessed at $43,913 while the average income stands at $51,296. This contrasts to Regional NSW's figures of a median income of $55,733 and an average income of $69,112. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $46,715 (median) and $54,569 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Walcha SA2 is $4,794 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The walcha sa2's disposable income is $4,794 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch assessment positions Walcha ahead of most Australian regions for employment performance.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 70.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,728 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 2,943 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,773 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Walcha SA2 has approximately 1,728 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.5%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Walcha SA2 stands at 2.5%, which is 1.6 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 Walcha SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are agriculture, forestry & fishing (42.0% of employment), health care & social assistance (9.3%), and education & training (7.7%). These three sectors alone account for 59.0% of local employment, indicating significant concentration. Other significant employers include public administration & safety and construction.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Walcha SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the Walcha SA2 is 70.2%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate leading the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
The walcha sa2 shows notable specialisation in agriculture, forestry & fishing, which employs 42.0% of the local workforce compared to 5.3% across Regional NSW. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 7.9, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area.
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The walcha sa2's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 17.0% growth, ranking 2nd out of 37 regions nationally.
Skilled workers will find selective opportunities in the Walcha SA2, with knowledge-based sectors representing 22.1% of local jobs. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (9.3%), education & training (7.7%), and professional & technical (3.5%).
Walcha 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 | 12.8% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 16.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 30.6% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.6% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.8% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 41.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 27.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 10.9% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.8% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
16.8% of people aged 15 and over in the Walcha SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
41.9% of people aged 15 and over in the Walcha SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The walcha sa2 ranks in the 17th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Walcha SA2 are: Certificate (30.6%), Bachelor Degree (12.8%), Advanced Diploma (10.8%).
27.2% of the population in the Walcha SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 10.9% in primary school, 7.8% in secondary school, 2.7% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Walcha SA2 is 934, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 5 schools within the Walcha SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 373 students.
The walcha sa2 includes 4 primary schools, 1 combined school.
Walcha features high concentrations of couples without children and lone person households but relatively few single parent families, 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 | 30.2% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 22.9% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 38.7% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 5.8% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,226 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,231 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 68.6% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.1 per family | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Walcha SA2 had 1,226 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 1,231 households today.
The average household size in the Walcha 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 68.6% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (30.2%), group households (1.5%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 841 family households, couples with children account for 22.9% of all households, couples without children at home 38.7%, and single parent families 5.8%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the Walcha SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Walcha SA2 have an average of 2.1 children, slightly above the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 55.3% of the adult population are currently married, while 26.3% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 30.2% of all households in the Walcha SA2, similar to the average for Regional NSW of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 1.5% of households, below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
The latest Census data sees Walcha placing among the least culturally diverse areas in the country when compared across a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 6.1% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 2.0% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 98.0% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 88.6% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 93.9% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 4.6% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
Walcha was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 88.6% of its population being citizens, 93.9% born in Australia, and 98.0% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Walcha was found to be Christianity, which makes up 69.6% of people in Walcha. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Walcha are Australian, comprising 34.3% of the population, English, comprising 31.4% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 9.7% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: New Zealand is notably overrepresented at 1.0% of Walcha (vs 0.4% across Regional NSW), Australian Aboriginal at 4.6% (vs 4.6%) and Irish at 9.4% (vs 8.8%).
6.1% of the Walcha SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
2.0% of the population in the Walcha SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
4.6% of the Walcha SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
88.6% of the Walcha SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Walcha is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 21.7% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 53.1% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 95.7% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,056 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 8th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 25.1% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 0.2% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $200 | 2021 Census, weekly | 6th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 16.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 13th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 20.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 15th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the Walcha SA2, 53.1% of homes are owned outright, 25.1% are owned with a mortgage, and 21.7% are rented.
According to the latest data, 95.7% of dwellings in the Walcha SA2 are houses.
In the Walcha SA2, 3.2% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 0.2% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Walcha SA2 stands at 53.1%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Walcha SA2 is $1,056, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Walcha SA2 is $453, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Walcha SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 20.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 16.5% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Walcha SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Walcha SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 20.1% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 16.5% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the Walcha SA2 consists of 95.7% detached houses, 0.2% semi-detached dwellings, 3.2% apartments, and 0.8% other dwelling types.
Housing in Walcha consumes approximately 8.6% of median household income ($5,244 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Development activity remains minimal in this area with fewer than 5 recent applications recorded.
Health performance in Walcha 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 | 46.2% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 1st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 63.3% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.4% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 75.1% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
Around 46.2% of people in the Walcha SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the Walcha SA2, 5.4% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
7.9% of people in the Walcha SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.9% of the Walcha SA2 population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.5% of people in the Walcha SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Walcha SA2, 46.2% 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 | 61 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 61st percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 246 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 95th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 729 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 30th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 13 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 26 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.7 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 31.5% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 246 public transport stops within the Walcha SA2.
The Walcha SA2 has 729 weekly trips across 26 routes, averaging 104 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 142 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 7.4 km away and the nearest child care centre 13.9 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 246 stops nearby, 729 weekly trips, access rating 61 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 23 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 7.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 13.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 14.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 14.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 14.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 15.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 15.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 27.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 55.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 56.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 56.1 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 is 1 long day care centre with 42 places in Walcha, about 4.1 children aged 0-4 per place.
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05Reports and tools
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Walcha is exceptionally low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Walcha has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 27% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Walcha's affordable property market has recorded 98 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 53% residential, 35% commercial and 12% vacant land transactions.
Walcha has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
Walcha ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 8% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch assessment positions Walcha ahead of most Australian regions for employment performance.
Walcha faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Walcha features high concentrations of couples without children and lone person households but relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
The latest Census data sees Walcha placing among the least culturally diverse areas in the country when compared across a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Walcha is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Walcha is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and 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 below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Walcha has an estimated 3,157 residents, up 0.4% since the 2021 Census, with 80 projects tracked in the area around Walcha.
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 Walcha.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Jul 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Jul 2025. 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 15 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 (110011189). 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 (Jul 2025) 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 Walcha 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 Walcha 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.
