Suburb profile · Rest of NSW
Bonnells Bay has an estimated 4,345 residents, up 6.9% since the 2021 Census, with 35 projects tracked in the area around Bonnells Bay.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of Bonnells Bay lies 89 kilometres north-northeast of the Sydney CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is estimated at around 4,345 as of Aug 2026, derived from aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) counts released each year and national address file data updated every quarter. This reflects an increase of 279 people (6.9%) since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 4,066 people. The area shows strong expansion patterns, with solid service amenity, a notable healthcare employment base and elevated construction employment. Detached housing leads, with a pronounced presence of residents aged 75 to 84 and a substantial group aged 65 to 74.
Residents are somewhat older than the typical Australian area, with a median age of 42, and households are largely made up of couples without children. The area generally has a lower education level and lower-quartile income levels. Sales volumes are significantly above average relative to the population.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Bonnells Bay lies 89 kilometres north-northeast of the Sydney CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is estimated at around 4,345 as of Aug 2026, derived from aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) counts released each year and national address file data updated every quarter. This reflects an increase of 279 people (6.9%) since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 4,066 people. The area shows strong expansion patterns, with solid service amenity, a notable healthcare employment base and elevated construction employment. Detached housing leads, with a pronounced presence of residents aged 75 to 84 and a substantial group aged 65 to 74.
Residents are somewhat older than the typical Australian area, with a median age of 42, and households are largely made up of couples without children. The area generally has a lower education level and lower-quartile income levels. Sales volumes are significantly above average relative to the population.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 3,157 in 2006 and 4,340 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 4,345 (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, 13.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 32.8%.
Bonnells Bay ranks in the 93rd percentile nationally for infrastructure drivers and the 89th for population growth.
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 Bonnells Bay is $628 a week, up 7.4% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 8% above Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.7%.
8% above Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $420 in 2017, $647 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $284 in 2017, $496 in 2025. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 Wagtail Close, Bonnells Bay NSW 2264 | $860,000 | 23 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 8 Merlot Close, Bonnells Bay NSW 2264 | $1,025,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 25 Verdelho Street, Bonnells Bay NSW 2264 | $1,000,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 2 Victoria Street, Bonnells Bay NSW 2264 | $740,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 11 Maddie Street, Bonnells Bay NSW 2264 | $965,000 | 22 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 5 Mather Drive, Bonnells Bay NSW 2264 | $835,000 | 21 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 36 Riesling Road, Bonnells Bay NSW 2264 | $800,000 | 21 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 33 Waikiki Road, Bonnells Bay NSW 2264 | $970,000 | 18 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 16 Macquarie Street, Bonnells Bay NSW 2264 | $860,000 | 18 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 4 Brooks Street, Bonnells Bay NSW 2264 | $800,000 | 15 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 50 residential sales recorded since 10 Feb 2026 (the latest settled 23 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 50, houses and units together, was $898,740 (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 | $628 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 | 3.7% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $900k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $735k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $898,740 | Median of the 50 most recent residential sales, settled 10 Feb 2026 to 23 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $647 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +4.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.7% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Lake Macquarie - West | $660 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Lake Macquarie - West, over 12 months | +7.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Regional NSW | $580 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional NSW, over 12 months | +6.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, NSW | $715 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, NSW, over 12 months | +5.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 30 tracked applications: 6 approved, 8 under assessment, 16 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 35 projects in and around Bonnells Bay, 10 of them under construction.
Trinity Point is a $665 million waterfront resort and marina expansion at Morisset Park on Lake Macquarie, designed by Koichi Takada. The State Significant Development includes a five-star hotel, luxury apartments, expansion of the marina to 188 berths, dining, a wellness retreat and a public foreshore boardwalk.
Delivery of a new multi-sport and community recreation precinct by the NSW Government to replace the former Myuna Bay Sport and Recreation Centre. The proposed facility is planned for the Morisset Hospital precinct off Morisset Park Road, incorporating multi-purpose indoor courts, outdoor playing fields, and associated community amenities.
Upgrade of the intersection to a new four-legged roundabout to improve safety for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians, reduce congestion, support public transport, and manage increased traffic volumes due to residential and commercial growth in Morisset, including access to the Cedar Mill entertainment venue.
Lake Macquarie City Council has engaged Metiri to plan and design an upgrade of the Fishery Point Road and Morisset Park Road intersection. The project is currently in the planning, investigations, and design stage, with a feasibility assessment identifying traffic signals as the most viable upgrade option.
Cedar Mill is a proposed tourism, entertainment and events precinct on the former Morisset Country Club site in Lake Macquarie, NSW. The original 2022 approval covered a 30,000-capacity outdoor amphitheatre, cafes, tourist accommodation and an over-55s village.
Bawarramalang, the Morisset Community Hub, will combine versatile and adaptable community facilities, a new library, and commercial offerings in 4600 square metres of activated space to energise a new town square in Morisset. Lahznimmo Architects has completed a concept design to inform the project's business case.
A landmark large format retail (LFR) development spanning 9 hectares with 30,000sqm of gross lettable area. Strategically located near the M1 Motorway, it features major national tenants including Aldi, Hungry Jacks, Oporto, Starbucks, Pet Quarters, and Repco.
The project replaces the existing roundabout at the Mandalong Road, Freemans Drive, Dora Street, and Wyee Road intersection with signalised traffic lights. It delivers additional through and turning lanes, raised medians, a shared user path, and two new bus stops on Dora Street to relieve congestion and support regional commercial growth.
A modern industrial strata unit complex developed by GWH, branded as MYHQ Morisset. It comprises 11 premium, high-clearance industrial units ranging from approximately 69mý to 333mý. The units include automatic roller doors, glazed shopfront entry, private amenities, and NBN connectivity.
Stage 3B (Block K) at Wangi Shores Retirement Village is a new waterfront stage on Lake Macquarie, delivering eight over 55s villas (four upper and four lower) with two bedrooms, study, balconies and undercover parking, with residents enjoying access to the village pool, spa, community centre, gardens and other shared facilities; construction has commenced…
The former Wangi Power Station site, an iconic and historically significant 22.3-hectare coastal property, is earmarked for a substantial mixed-use redevelopment. The site has R3 Medium Residential and B4 Mixed Use zoning, allowing for residential, retail, commercial, or tourism developments.
A three storey residential building proposed at 1 Kent Place, Wangi Wangi in the Lake Macquarie City Council area. The project is planned to deliver 13 apartments above ground level parking, with 24 car spaces on a 933 square metre B1 Neighbourhood Centre corner site close to shops, services and the Wangi Wangi foreshore.
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: 2026 5, 2027 6, 2028 4, 2029 3, 2030 2. 10 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 30 substantial development applications lodged in and around Bonnells Bay over the period covered (about 4.3 years), 25 in the last 12 months; 8 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2022 (part year) 3, 2023 1, 2024 0, 2025 1, 2026 (to Nov) 25.
Key application 145 Grand Parade, Bonnells Bay Retail | $732k | 1 dwelling | 2 storeys Approved
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 30 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 4.3 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 25 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 5.7 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 67th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 23 | ABS building approvals | 35th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 6 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 4.3 years) | |
| Applications under assessment | 8 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 4.3 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Bonnells Bay include: Trinity Point Mixed Use Development (Approved); Morisset Place Strategy (Planning); Alliance Avenue and Wyee Road Intersection Upgrade (Construction); Fishery Point Road and Morisset Park Road Intersection Upgrade (Planning); and Cedar Mill Lake Macquarie (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Bonnells Bay spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Transport & Logistics, and Tourism, among others.
The suburb of Bonnells Bay ranks in the top 10% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Bonnells Bay recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Bonnells Bay area has seen 22 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Bonnells Bay's current population of 4,345 has been supported by 23 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Bonnells Bay has seen 5.7 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 392 people in the suburb of Bonnells Bay, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Bonnells Bay's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 23, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Bonnells Bay has grown by approximately 334 people, while 116 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.9 people added for each new dwelling approval. This indicates solid population growth supported by housing development activity.
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.
Bonnells Bay lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 4,345 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +6.9% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,326 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 57th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 4,066 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 279 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 3.28 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Bonnells Bay was estimated to be approximately 4,345 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 4,340 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Bonnells Bay has added approximately 279 people and shown a 6.86% increase from the 4,066 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Bonnells Bay is estimated at 1,325 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Bonnells Bay has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.7% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Bonnells Bay is driven by: Interstate migration (48.0%), Overseas migration (27.0%), Natural increase (25.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 48.0% of overall population gains.
Bonnells Bay's median age exceeds the national pattern.
| 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 | 67th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 25.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 17.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 23.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 46.6% | 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 | 42 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 | 12.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 12.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 9.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 11.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 13.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 9.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Bonnells Bay at 42 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 42 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 42 years as at August 2026, Bonnells Bay is comparable to the Regional NSW 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 Bonnells Bay compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 12.8% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Bonnells Bay compared to the Regional NSW region is the 45 - 54 group, making up 9.6% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the suburb of Bonnells Bay is broadly in line with Regional NSW.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 17.8% of the population in the suburb of Bonnells Bay as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 25.2% of the population in the suburb of Bonnells Bay as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 75% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $51,160 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 19th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $65,010 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,460 | 2021 Census, weekly | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $685 | 2021 Census, weekly | 25th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 15.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,729 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 26.9% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Bonnells Bay is approximately $54,424. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $51,160.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Bonnells Bay is approximately $69,158. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $65,010.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Bonnells Bay is approximately $54,424 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $51,160 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Bonnells Bay is approximately $69,158 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $65,010 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Bonnells Bay's households (~32.8% / 506 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Bonnells Bay is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 32.8% 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 suburb of Bonnells Bay is $1,460/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Bonnells Bay is $1,729/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Bonnells Bay is $685/wk.
The suburb of Bonnells Bay's income level is lower than average on a national basis according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The suburb of Bonnells Bay's median income among taxpayers is $51,160 and the average income stands at $65,010, 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 $54,424 (median) and $69,158 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Bonnells Bay is $5,263 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Bonnells Bay's disposable income is $5,263 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The labour market performance in Bonnells Bay lags significantly behind most other regions nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 5.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 58.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,976 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 3,618 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,083 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Bonnells Bay has approximately 1,976 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 5.1%. 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 Bonnells Bay stands at 5.1%, which is 1.0 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 suburb of Bonnells Bay is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (20.1% of employment), construction (12.8%), and retail trade (10.6%). Other significant employers include education & training and manufacturing.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Bonnells Bay 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 suburb of Bonnells Bay is 58.0%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Regional NSW.
The suburb of Bonnells Bay shows notable specialisation in health care & social assistance, which employs 20.1% of the local workforce compared to 16.9% across Regional NSW. 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 Bonnells Bay'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 saw a 4.8% decline, ranking 33rd out of 37 regions nationally.
Educational outcomes in Bonnells Bay fall within the lower quartile nationally, indicating opportunities for improvement in qualification attainment.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 12.2% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.6% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 17.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 32.2% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.6% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 38.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 26.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.3% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.3% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
17.5% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Bonnells Bay have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
38.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Bonnells Bay have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The suburb of Bonnells Bay ranks in the 25th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Bonnells Bay are: Certificate (32.2%), Bachelor Degree (12.2%), Advanced Diploma (11.6%).
26.1% of the population in the suburb of Bonnells Bay is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.3% in primary school, 7.3% in secondary school, 3.2% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Bonnells Bay is 936, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 1 schools within the suburb of Bonnells Bay, with a combined enrollment of approximately 394 students.
The suburb of Bonnells Bay includes 1 primary school.
Bonnells Bay features high concentrations of single parent families and couples without children, with a larger average household size than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.5 people | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 22.1% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 27.5% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 32.3% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 14.9% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,543 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,649 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 75.3% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Bonnells Bay had 1,543 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 6.9% to an estimated 1,649 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Bonnells Bay is 2.5 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 75.3% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (22.1%), group households (2.3%), and other household types (0.2%).
Of the 1,162 family households, couples with children account for 27.5% of all households, couples without children at home 32.3%, and single parent families 14.9%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the suburb of Bonnells Bay shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 75.3% (versus 68.8% in Regional NSW). Conversely, lone person households are under-represented at 22.1% compared to 27.9% in Regional NSW. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the suburb of Bonnells Bay have an average of 1.7 children, slightly below the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 47.8% of the adult population are currently married, while 32.8% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 22.1% of all households in the suburb of Bonnells Bay, notably lower 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 2.3% of households, below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Bonnells Bay is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 13.5% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 5.0% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 95.0% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 92.4% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 86.5% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 4.4% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
Bonnells Bay was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 86.5% of its population born in Australia, 92.4% being citizens, and 95.0% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Bonnells Bay was found to be Christianity, which makes up 55.7% of people in Bonnells Bay. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Bonnells Bay are Australian, comprising 31.9% of the population, English, comprising 30.6% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 8.1% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: South African is notably overrepresented at 0.6% of Bonnells Bay (vs 0.2% across Regional NSW), Australian Aboriginal at 4.4% (vs 4.6%) and Maltese at 0.6% (vs 0.4%).
13.5% of the suburb of Bonnells Bay population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
5.0% of the population in the suburb of Bonnells Bay speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
4.4% of the suburb of Bonnells Bay population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
92.4% of the suburb of Bonnells Bay population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Bonnells Bay 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 | 26.7% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 40.4% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 94.1% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,820 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 51st percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 33.0% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 5.0% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $400 | 2021 Census, weekly | 66th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 27.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 91st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 28.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 85th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Bonnells Bay, 40.4% of homes are owned outright, 33.0% are owned with a mortgage, and 26.7% are rented.
According to the latest data, 94.1% of dwellings in the suburb of Bonnells Bay are houses.
In the suburb of Bonnells Bay, 0.8% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 5.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Bonnells Bay stands at 40.4%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Bonnells Bay is $1,820, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Bonnells Bay is $1,063, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Bonnells Bay, households with mortgages typically spend 28.8% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 27.4% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Bonnells Bay is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Bonnells Bay shows mortgage holders spending 28.8% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 27.4% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Bonnells Bay consists of 94.1% detached houses, 5.0% semi-detached dwellings, 0.8% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Bonnells Bay consumes approximately 16.8% of median household income ($6,322 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Bonnells Bay show attached dwellings contributing 25% of approvals compared to 6% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 75% of applications versus 94% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health performance in Bonnells Bay 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 | 50.8% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 33rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 60.2% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.6% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 68.7% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
Around 50.8% of people in the suburb of Bonnells Bay are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the suburb of Bonnells Bay, 6.6% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
9.1% of people in the suburb of Bonnells Bay are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.7% of the suburb of Bonnells Bay population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.0% of people in the suburb of Bonnells Bay have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Bonnells Bay, 50.8% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional NSW sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 52.2%.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 48 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 48th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 33 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 31st percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 347 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 20th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 130 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 29 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.6 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 25.6% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 33 public transport stops within the suburb of Bonnells Bay.
The suburb of Bonnells Bay has 347 weekly trips across 29 routes, averaging 49 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 161 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest GP is 534 m away and the nearest school 968 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 33 stops nearby, 347 weekly trips, access rating 48 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 89 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 89th percentile nationally |
| Nearest GP | 534 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 930 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 968 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 976 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest shopping centre | 988 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 991 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 2.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 3.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 12.5 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 59 places in Bonnells Bay, about 3.8 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 Bonnells Bay 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 Bonnells Bay.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Bonnells Bay recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Bonnells Bay has exceptionally high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 7% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Bonnells Bay's resilient property market has recorded 85 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 100% residential transactions.
Bonnells Bay lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Bonnells Bay's median age exceeds the national pattern.
Income figures position the area below 75% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
The labour market performance in Bonnells Bay lags significantly behind most other regions nationally.
Educational outcomes in Bonnells Bay fall within the lower quartile nationally, indicating opportunities for improvement in qualification attainment.
Bonnells Bay features high concentrations of single parent families and couples without children, with a larger average household size than Regional NSW.
Bonnells Bay is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
Bonnells Bay is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Bonnells Bay is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Bonnells Bay has an estimated 4,345 residents, up 6.9% since the 2021 Census, with 35 projects tracked in the area around Bonnells Bay.
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 Bonnells Bay.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Oct 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026 and taxable income FY 2024. 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 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 (SAL10466). 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) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, infrastructure projects, 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 Bonnells Bay 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 Bonnells Bay 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.
