Suburb profile · Rest of Vic.
Bendigo has an estimated 5,624 residents, down 0.5% since the 2021 Census, with 16 projects tracked in Bendigo.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of Bendigo lies 132 kilometres north-northwest of the Melbourne CBD in Victoria. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is estimated at around 5,624 as of Aug 2026, a figure built from aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) counts released yearly and national address file data updated each quarter. This represents minimal change since the 2021 Census, which recorded 5,652 people. Renting is above average, service amenity is strong and household sizes are low, while healthcare and hospitality employment are both notable. A pronounced 25 to 34 year old demographic stands out, and residents are somewhat older than the typical Australian area, with a median age of 43.
Its household profile is dominated by lone person and group households, consistent with its smaller average household size. Known for its rich history, preserved Victorian architecture from the gold rush era, and a lively arts, food and wine scene set among lush gardens and parks, the suburb combines heritage charm with natural beauty and cultural vitality.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Bendigo lies 132 kilometres north-northwest of the Melbourne CBD in Victoria. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is estimated at around 5,624 as of Aug 2026, a figure built from aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) counts released yearly and national address file data updated each quarter. This represents minimal change since the 2021 Census, which recorded 5,652 people. Renting is above average, service amenity is strong and household sizes are low, while healthcare and hospitality employment are both notable. A pronounced 25 to 34 year old demographic stands out, and residents are somewhat older than the typical Australian area, with a median age of 43.
Its household profile is dominated by lone person and group households, consistent with its smaller average household size. Known for its rich history, preserved Victorian architecture from the gold rush era, and a lively arts, food and wine scene set among lush gardens and parks, the suburb combines heritage charm with natural beauty and cultural vitality.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 6,078 in 2006 and 5,464 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 5,624 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 17.1%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 29.7%.
Bendigo ranks in the 97th percentile nationally for transport & access and the 96th 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 Bendigo is $452 a week, up 9.1% over 12 months to Sep 2025.
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $392 in 2022, $477 in 2025; Units (dashed orange line): $325 in 2022, $379 in 2025. The latest is to Sep 2025.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $452 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +9.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, houses | $477 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +9.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, units | $379 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +1.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Bendigo | $485 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Bendigo, over 12 months | +6.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Regional Vic. | $458 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional Vic., over 12 months | +5.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, VIC | $560 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, VIC, over 12 months | +4.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 90 tracked applications: 67 approved, 4 under assessment, 19 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 16 projects in Bendigo (5 under construction) and 34 more in the surrounding area.
The largest civic infrastructure project by the City of Greater Bendigo, this $45M redevelopment includes a second-level blockbuster exhibition space, an innovative learning centre, a 100-seat theatre, and a Traditional Owner Place of Keeping for Dja Dja Wurrung cultural materials.
A $44 million community housing development delivered by Uniting Housing on land around St Andrews Uniting Church in central Bendigo. Comprises 73 apartments across three architecturally designed buildings - 49 two-bedroom and 24 one-bedroom units - providing homes for more than 130 people experiencing housing stress.
Redevelopment and modernisation of the regional transport maintenance depot and operational facilities in Bendigo. The works include new bus and heavy vehicle maintenance bays, refurbished administrative offices, and upgraded operational staging infrastructure to support expanded public transport services.
Australia's largest regional hospital development in Victoria's history. $630 million state-of-the-art facility completed in June 2018 with 372 inpatient beds, 72 same-day beds, 11 operating theatres, integrated cancer centre with 4 radiotherapy bunkers, mental health facility, and maternity units.
Comprehensive mall upgrade under the 2023-2026 Action Plan featuring new landscaping, organic shaped timber-look modules, low-level performance stage, seating with planter boxes, three urban shade canopy structures, coloured LED lighting, water misting tower, and business attraction initiatives.
$1.8 million infrastructure renewal including wall replacement at Nolan Street and section from Booth Street to High Street. Part of City of Greater Bendigo's 2024/2025 Budget.
Two of the three projects in the Victorian Government's Bendigo Sports Package, delivered by Development Victoria on behalf of Sport and Recreation Victoria under the Regional Sports Infrastructure Program. Construction commenced at both venues in September 2025 and is due for completion in late 2026.
Major retail development with over 95 stores including Woolworths, Big W, specialty retailers, food court and restaurants. Features undercover parking, free WiFi, and serves as central shopping destination. Underwent major expansion in 2008/2009 doubling in size.
State-of-the-art $133 million government building supporting job creation and economic growth. Accommodates up to 1,000 City of Greater Bendigo and Victorian Government employees, creating a one-stop-shop for government services.
84 new social housing units for residents aged 55 years and over, delivered by VincentCare Community Housing in partnership with Homes Victoria under the Big Housing Build. Mix of 64 one-bedroom and 20 two-bedroom apartments and townhouses across five buildings, replacing 30 ageing independent living units.
Intersection upgrade at Howard Street and Midland Highway in Epsom, near Bendigo. The intersection was voted the most dangerous in regional Victoria in the 2024 RACV My Country Roads Survey, with both roads carrying approximately 10,000 vehicles daily.
Development Victoria is delivering 'Eumana', a new masterplanned residential community at 2 Osborne Street, Flora Hill, Bendigo. The project will provide over 170 new homes across various lot sizes, including around 56 social and affordable homes delivered in partnership with Homes Victoria.
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 20 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 8, 2027 4, 2028 4, 2029 0, 2030 1, 2031 1, 2032 1. 9 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 90 substantial development applications lodged in and around Bendigo over the past 5 years, 11 in the last 12 months; 4 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 0, 2022 19, 2023 21, 2024 25, 2025 15, 2026 (to Oct) 10.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 90 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 11 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 6.3 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 35 | ABS building approvals | 47th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 67 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 4 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Bendigo include: Regional Sports Infrastructure Program - Bendigo (Construction); Water and Sewer Network Program (Construction); Bendigo Art Gallery Redevelopment (Construction); Bendigo Stadium and Bendigo Showgrounds Redevelopment (Construction); and Myers Street Bendigo Community Housing (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Bendigo spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Sports & Recreation, among others.
The suburb of Bendigo ranks in the top 20% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Bendigo compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Bendigo area has seen 52 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Bendigo's current population of 5,624 has been supported by 35 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Bendigo has seen 6.3 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 7.6 approvals in Regional Vic.. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 209 people in the suburb of Bendigo, compared to one for every 145 in Regional Vic..
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Bendigo's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 35, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the suburb of Bendigo has seen 176 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.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Bendigo reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 5,624 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | -0.5% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,022 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | -0.9% | 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 | 5,652 | 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | -0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 5.50 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Bendigo was estimated to be approximately 5,624 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 5,464 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Bendigo has lost approximately 28 people and shown a 0.50% decrease from the 5,652 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Bendigo is estimated at 1,023 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Bendigo has shown a compound annual growth rate of -0.4% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Bendigo 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.
Bendigo hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 42 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 20.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 13.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 28.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 55.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 43 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 8.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 17.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 13.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 6.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Bendigo at 42 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 43 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 42 years as at August 2026, Bendigo is comparable to the Regional Vic. 2021 Census average (43 years) yet 4 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Bendigo compared to the Regional Vic. region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 17.1% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Bendigo compared to the Regional Vic. region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 8.1% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Bendigo show significant variance compared to Regional Vic.. The most over-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (17.1% vs 11.0%). The most under-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (1.5% vs 2.9%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 13.5% of the population in the suburb of Bendigo as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 20.2% of the population in the suburb of Bendigo as at August 2026.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $60,178 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 56th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $74,377 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,429 | 2021 Census, weekly | 31st percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $821 | 2021 Census, weekly | 53rd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 18.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,984 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 28.4% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Bendigo is approximately $64,150. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $60,178.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Bendigo is approximately $79,286. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $74,377.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Bendigo is approximately $64,150 compared to $57,266 in Regional Vic.. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $60,178 and $53,720 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Bendigo is approximately $79,286 compared to $70,544 in Regional Vic.. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $74,377 and $66,176 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Bendigo's households (~29.7% / 744 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Bendigo is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.7% of households. In comparison, Regional Vic.'s largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 30.3% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Bendigo is $1,429/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Bendigo is $1,984/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Bendigo is $821/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the suburb of Bendigo is above the national average, with the median assessed at $60,178 while the average income stands at $74,377. This contrasts to Regional Vic.'s figures of a median income of $53,720 and an average income of $66,176. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.6% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $64,150 (median) and $79,286 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Bendigo is $5,283 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Bendigo's disposable income is $5,283 compared to $5,209 for Regional Vic., based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis reveals Bendigo recording weaker employment conditions than most comparable areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 5.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 61.6% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,753 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 12,202 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,920 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Bendigo has approximately 2,753 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 5.7%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Bendigo stands at 5.7%, which is 2.0 percentage points above Regional Vic.'s rate of 3.7%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Bendigo is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (22.6% of employment), education & training (10.4%), and accommodation & food (10.0%). Other significant employers include retail trade and construction.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Bendigo has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Regional Vic. saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Bendigo is 61.6%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate leading the Regional Vic. average of 61.1%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional Vic..
The suburb of Bendigo shows notable specialisation in health care & social assistance, which employs 22.6% of the local workforce compared to 16.8% across Regional Vic.. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The suburb of Bendigo's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 5.3% growth, ranking 11th out of 37 regions nationally.
The educational profile of Bendigo ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 21.4% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 8.6% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 35.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 20.0% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 5.2% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.3% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 34.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 25.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 5.6% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 6.6% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.7% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
35.2% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Bendigo have university qualifications, compared to 21.7% in Regional Vic..
34.7% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Bendigo have no formal qualifications, compared to 40.4% in Regional Vic..
The suburb of Bendigo ranks in the 66th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Bendigo are: Bachelor Degree (21.4%), Certificate (20.0%), Advanced Diploma (10.3%).
25.1% of the population in the suburb of Bendigo is currently engaged in formal education, including 6.6% in primary school, 6.7% in secondary school, 5.6% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Bendigo is 1046, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 9 schools within the suburb of Bendigo, with a combined enrollment of approximately 5,408 students.
The suburb of Bendigo includes 2 primary schools, 4 secondary schools, 3 combined schools.
Bendigo features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Regional Vic.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.1 people | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 38.5% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 17.4% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 25.7% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 11.7% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 5.1% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,503 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 2,491 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 56.5% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.5 per family | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Bendigo had 2,503 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 2,491 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Bendigo is 2.1 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional Vic. and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 56.5% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (38.5%), group households (5.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,414 family households, couples with children account for 17.4% of all households, couples without children at home 25.7%, and single parent families 11.7%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Vic., the suburb of Bendigo shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 38.5% (versus 29.3% in Regional Vic.). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 56.5% compared to 67.8% in Regional Vic.. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Bendigo have an average of 1.5 children, slightly below the Regional Vic. average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 37.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 43.2% have never married. This compares to 46.3% married and 34.0% never married across Regional Vic..
Single-person households represent 38.5% of all households in the suburb of Bendigo, higher than the average for Regional Vic. of 29.3%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 5.1% of households, above the Regional Vic. average of 2.9%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Bendigo 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 | 13.3% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 9.0% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 91.0% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 87.5% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 86.7% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
Bendigo was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 87.5% of its population being citizens, 86.7% born in Australia, and 91.0% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Bendigo, at 43.3% of people, although more residents (51.9%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Other, which comprises 1.0% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Regional Vic..
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Bendigo are English, comprising 30.8% of the population, Australian, comprising 25.8% of the population, and Irish, comprising 12.3% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Scottish is notably overrepresented at 9.6% of Bendigo (vs 8.8% across Regional Vic.), Welsh at 0.6% (vs 0.4%) and French at 0.5% (vs 0.3%).
13.3% of the suburb of Bendigo population was born overseas, compared to 13.2% across Regional Vic..
9.0% of the population in the suburb of Bendigo speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.6% in Regional Vic..
1.5% of the suburb of Bendigo population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Regional Vic..
87.5% of the suburb of Bendigo population holds citizenship, compared to 88.6% in Regional Vic..
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Bendigo is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional Vic.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 45.4% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 31.7% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 82.0% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,482 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 26th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 22.9% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 15.0% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $290 | 2021 Census, weekly | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 20.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 47th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 23.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 49th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Bendigo, 31.7% of homes are owned outright, 22.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 45.4% are rented.
According to the latest data, 82.0% of dwellings in the suburb of Bendigo are houses.
In the suburb of Bendigo, 2.5% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 15.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Bendigo stands at 31.7%, compared to 40.9% in Regional Vic..
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Bendigo is $1,482, compared to $1,430 in Regional Vic..
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Bendigo is $909, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Bendigo, households with mortgages typically spend 23.9% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.3% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Bendigo is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Bendigo shows mortgage holders spending 23.9% of income on repayments (vs 23.8% in Regional Vic.), while renters spend 20.3% of income on rent (vs 20.6% in Regional Vic.).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Bendigo consists of 82.0% detached houses, 15.0% semi-detached dwellings, 2.5% apartments, and 0.6% other dwelling types.
Housing in Bendigo consumes approximately 14.7% of median household income ($6,188 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Bendigo show attached dwellings contributing 31% of approvals compared to 18% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 69% of applications versus 82% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in Bendigo 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 | 54.6% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 56th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 64.0% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.5% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 71.2% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
Around 54.6% of people in the suburb of Bendigo are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 50.8% in Regional Vic..
In the suburb of Bendigo, 6.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.9% of people in Regional Vic. require similar assistance.
8.4% of people in the suburb of Bendigo are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.7% of the population across Regional Vic. is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.8% of the suburb of Bendigo population, while in Regional Vic., 4.6% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.8% of people in the suburb of Bendigo have heart disease. Across Regional Vic.,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Bendigo, 54.6% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Vic. sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 50.8%.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 97 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 97th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 77 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 61st percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 12,127 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 96th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 73 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 43 | 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 | 17.9% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 77 public transport stops within the suburb of Bendigo.
The suburb of Bendigo has 12,127 weekly trips across 43 routes, averaging 1,732 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 181 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest GP is 376 m away and the nearest child care centre 378 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 77 stops nearby, 12,127 weekly trips, access rating 97 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 96 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 96th percentile nationally |
| Nearest GP | 376 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 378 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 404 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 503 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 640 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 852 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 947 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 2 long day care centres with 243 places in Bendigo, about 1.3 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 Bendigo 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 Bendigo.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Bendigo compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Bendigo has exceptionally high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 10% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Bendigo is $452 a week, +9.1% over 12 months to Sep 2025.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Bendigo reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Bendigo hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis reveals Bendigo recording weaker employment conditions than most comparable areas nationwide.
The educational profile of Bendigo ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Bendigo features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Regional Vic.
Bendigo ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Bendigo is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Regional Vic.
Health performance in Bendigo is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is high 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.
Bendigo has an estimated 5,624 residents, down 0.5% since the 2021 Census, with 16 projects tracked in Bendigo.
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 Bendigo.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2025, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Oct 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 15 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SAL boundaries are defined by Australia Post and the Australian Bureau of Statistics to represent commonly-known suburb names used in postal addresses.
Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census data collection and may combine multiple suburbs or 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 (SAL20208). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries (suburb-style geography). SAL represents commonly-known suburb names used in addresses, while Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census and statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Oct 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, 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 Bendigo 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 Bendigo 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.
