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This analysis uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, which can materially differ from Statistical Areas (SA2) even when sharing the same name.
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 comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.
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2021 Census | -- people
Sales Activity
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Population
Charmhaven is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends
As of May 2026, the estimated population of the suburb of Charmhaven is around 2,740. This figure reflects an increase of 239 people since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 2,501. The current resident population estimate of 2,738 by AreaSearch, based on the latest ERP data release by the ABS in June 2025 and additional validated new addresses since the Census date, indicates this growth. This results in a density ratio of 387 persons per square kilometer, suggesting significant space per person and potential room for further development. Charmhaven's population growth of 9.6% since the 2021 census exceeded both the SA4 region (3.4%) and the SA3 area, positioning it as a growth leader in the region. Overseas migration contributed approximately 99.0% of overall population gains during recent periods.
AreaSearch is using ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area, released in 2024 with 2022 as the base year, and NSW State Government's SA2 level projections where applicable. Based on these aggregated SA2-level projections, Charmhaven is expected to increase by just below the median of statistical areas analysed by AreaSearch, expanding by 202 persons to reach an estimated population of 2,942 by 2041, reflecting a total increase of 7.3% over the 16-year period.
Frequently Asked Questions - Population
Development
Residential development activity is lower than average in Charmhaven according to AreaSearch's national comparison of local real estate markets
AreaSearch analysis of ABS building approval numbers allocated from statistical area data indicates that Charmhaven has experienced approximately 14 dwelling approvals annually over the past five financial years, totalling an estimated 73 homes. As of FY-26, 10 approvals have been recorded. The average number of people moving to the area per year for each dwelling built between FY-21 and FY-25 is around 0.3, suggesting that supply meets or exceeds demand, offering greater buyer choice while supporting potential population growth above projections. The average construction value of new homes over this period is approximately $292,000, aligning with broader regional development trends.
In FY-26, commercial approvals valued at $218,000 have been registered, indicating a predominantly residential focus in the area. Compared to Greater Sydney, Charmhaven shows moderately higher construction activity, with 32.0% above the regional average per person over the past five years. This has helped preserve reasonable buyer options while sustaining existing property demand. However, recent construction activity has eased slightly.
The current construction composition comprises 75.0% standalone homes and 25.0% medium to high-density housing, maintaining the area's traditional low-density character with a focus on family homes appealing to those seeking space. This represents a notable shift from the existing housing stock, which is currently 93.0% houses, suggesting decreasing availability of developable sites and reflecting changing lifestyles and the need for more diverse, affordable housing options. Charmhaven's population growth is reflected in its approvals-to-population ratio, with around 273 people per approval. According to AreaSearch's latest quarterly estimate, Charmhaven is projected to gain approximately 200 residents by 2041. Based on current development patterns, new housing supply should readily meet demand, offering good conditions for buyers and potentially facilitating population growth beyond current projections.
Frequently Asked Questions - Development
Development applications around Charmhaven
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SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.
Infrastructure
Charmhaven has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 40% nationally
Area infrastructure changes significantly impact performance. AreaSearch identified six projects likely affecting the area. Key projects are Lake Haven Centre Redevelopment, Madison Rise Estate, Kanwal-Lake Haven-Gorokan Growth Corridor (Warnervale East / Greater Warnervale), and Charmhaven Master-Planned Housing Community. The following details those most relevant.
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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure
Greater Warnervale Structure Plan
A long-term land use planning framework adopted by Central Coast Council in July 2024 and subsequently endorsed by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) to guide growth across the Greater Warnervale area to 2041. Covering a 3,900 hectare study area, the plan provides a 20 year framework to support population growth from around 20,162 residents to approximately 57,000, accommodating an additional 10,130 dwellings and capacity for around 8,500 new jobs. Ten precincts are identified for staged rezoning and detailed planning, including Wyong Employment Zone with Central Coast Airport, Warnervale Village, Wallarah Residential, Warnervale Town Centre and the Charmhaven and Kanwal precincts. Two new neighbourhood centres replace the previously planned Warnervale Town Centre at full scale, following the withdrawal of the proposed North Warnervale rail station. The plan also delivers significant biodiversity protections including corridors of 50 to 100 metres minimum width and ongoing safeguards for Porters Creek Wetland, supports a network of upgraded sports and community facilities, and forms the basis for amendments to local environmental plans, development control plans and contributions plans.
Toukley Desalination Water Treatment Plant
A proposed seawater desalination water treatment plant adjacent to the existing Toukley Sewage Treatment Plant, being developed as a 'plan ready' drought response project under the Central Coast Water Security Plan. The current concept is a reverse osmosis facility with an initial capacity of 30 ML/day, with provision in the EIS for staged expansion up to 40 ML/day to support normal water supply if needed. The preferred design uses a direct ocean intake located around one kilometre offshore from Jenny Dixon Reserve, with the transfer pump station relocated to the desalination plant site (replacing the earlier Lakes Beach underground well concept under Budgewoi Beach) and connected by a deep tunnel bored about 25 metres below ground. Brine would be discharged via the existing Norah Head ocean outfall. Council is preparing an Environmental Impact Statement, with a community drop-in session held in August 2025 and another planned for the second quarter of 2026. The plant would only be constructed if dam storage falls below the 45 percent trigger at Mangrove Creek Dam, with construction estimated to take 3 to 4 years once activated. GHD has been appointed as the specialist consultant supporting concept design and statutory approvals.
Warnervale Water and Sewer Infrastructure Program
A comprehensive infrastructure program supporting the Greater Warnervale growth corridor. Key works include the $82.5 million Mardi Water Treatment Plant upgrade, which involves adding Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) systems to increase capacity to 160 million litres per day. The program also encompasses the $144 million Charmhaven Sewage Treatment Plant upgrade and the completed 9.4km Mardi to Warnervale Pipeline to ensure long-term water security for over 210,000 residents.
Central Coast Airport Precinct Development
The Central Coast Airport Masterplan, adopted by Central Coast Council on 25 February 2025, sets the framework for transforming the existing general aviation airfield at Warnervale into a regional general aviation, education and emergency services hub over the period 2025 to 2035. The plan retains the current 1200 metre runway length, upgrades the runway to Code 1B with the option to safeguard for future Code 2B operations, and adds night lighting to enable medevac and firefighting aircraft operations. Surrounding lands will be developed as an aviation business park supporting hangars, pilot training, aviation related manufacturing and a Bachelor of Aviation program in partnership with the University of Newcastle, with up to 90 student placements per year. Emergency services will be relocated from Arizona Road, Charmhaven, to the airport site. The Porters Creek Wetland and adjoining high value ecological areas will be protected through a Biodiversity Stewardship Agreement. Council resolved in December 2025 to proceed with the rezoning of the airport lands and surrounding wetlands, and is preparing a subdivision plan, planning proposal and Biodiversity Certification Assessment Report as the next implementation steps.
Lake Haven Centre Redevelopment
Proposed expansion and modernisation of Lake Haven Centre, a sub-regional shopping centre owned and managed by Vicinity Centres. Current GLA is approximately 43,207 sqm, anchored by Kmart, Coles, Woolworths, and ALDI. As of February 2026, the project remains in the long-term planning phase; while a formal development application for a full-scale redevelopment is yet to be lodged, Vicinity Centres has recently completed a major $2 million solar installation as part of its sustainability upgrades for the site.
Wyong Hospital Redevelopment
The $200 million Wyong Hospital Redevelopment (completed 2021-2022) delivered a new six-storey clinical services building (Block H) with expanded emergency department, ICU, paediatrics, medical imaging (including the hospital's first MRI), additional inpatient beds, and a medical assessment unit; plus refurbishment of existing facilities adding operating theatre capacity, expanded medical day unit, transit lounge, and cancer day unit expansion. The project significantly increased healthcare capacity for the Central Coast community.
Warnervale Town Centre - Woolworths Shopping Centre
Development of a neighbourhood shopping centre within the proposed Warnervale Town Centre as part of Parklands Central Coast master-planned community. Includes a Woolworths supermarket with Home Delivery, specialty retail uses, commercial uses, medical centre, pharmacy, and community facilities. The development is designed to serve the growing Warnervale community and support the planned population growth in the area.
Kanwal-Lake Haven-Gorokan Growth Corridor (Warnervale East / Greater Warnervale)
Long term residential growth corridor along the Pacific Highway between Kanwal, Lake Haven and Gorokan, forming part of the Warnervale East and Greater Warnervale urban release area. The corridor is planned to deliver around 4,000 new homes over more than 20 years, primarily as low density house and land estates supported by local parks, schools, neighbourhood centres and transport links. Most of the release area is already zoned and either developed or approved, with remaining stages guided by Central Coast Development Control Plan Chapter 5.37 and the 2024 Greater Warnervale Structure Plan. Delivery is occurring progressively through estates such as Rosella Rise and other private subdivisions, with full build out expected by the mid 2040s.
Employment
The employment landscape in Charmhaven shows performance that lags behind national averages across key labour market indicators
Charmhaven has a balanced workforce with both white and blue collar jobs. The construction sector is prominent, with an unemployment rate of 5.3% and employment growth of 4.9% in the past year (AreaSearch data). As of December 2025, 1,240 residents are employed while the unemployment rate is 1.1% higher than Greater Sydney's rate of 4.2%.
Workforce participation is lower at 57.3%, compared to Greater Sydney's 68.8%. According to Census responses, 16.6% of residents work from home. Employment is concentrated in health care & social assistance, construction, and retail trade. Construction employment is particularly high, at 1.6 times the regional average.
Professional & technical services employ only 2.5% of local workers, below Greater Sydney's 11.5%. The worker-to-resident ratio is 0.6, indicating a higher-than-average level of local employment opportunities. Over the past year (AreaSearch data), employment increased by 4.9%, while labour force and unemployment remained relatively stable. In contrast, Greater Sydney saw employment growth of 2.2% and marginal unemployment increase. National employment forecasts from May-25 suggest total employment will expand by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years. Applying these projections to Charmhaven's employment mix indicates local employment should increase by 6.3% over five years and 13.3% over ten years, though this is a simplified extrapolation for illustrative purposes only.
Frequently Asked Questions - Employment
Income
Income figures position the area below 75% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of ATO data released in financial year 2023, Charmhaven had a median income among taxpayers of $47,479 and an average income of $57,029. Both figures are below the national averages of $60,817 and $83,003 for Greater Sydney respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% since financial year 2023, estimated median and average incomes in Charmhaven as of March 2026 would be approximately $52,379 and $62,914 respectively. Census data shows that household, family, and personal incomes in Charmhaven fall between the 15th and 28th percentiles nationally. Income analysis reveals that the majority of residents (34.9%, or 956 people) earn within the $1,500 - 2,999 bracket, reflecting regional patterns where 30.9% of residents fall into this income range. Housing affordability pressures are severe in Charmhaven, with only 80.8% of income remaining after housing costs, ranking at the 23rd percentile nationally.
Frequently Asked Questions - Income
Housing
Charmhaven is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership
Charmhaven's dwellings, as per the latest Census, consisted of 92.8% houses and 7.3% other types such as semi-detached homes, apartments, and 'other' dwellings. This compares to Sydney metropolitan area's figures of 55.9% houses and 44.1% other dwellings. Home ownership in Charmhaven stood at 30.7%, with mortgaged properties at 38.4% and rented ones at 30.9%. The median monthly mortgage repayment in the area was $1,705, lower than Sydney metro's average of $2,427. The median weekly rent figure was recorded as $375, compared to Sydney metro's $470. Nationally, Charmhaven's mortgage repayments were below the Australian average of $1,863, while rents were comparable at $375.
Frequently Asked Questions - Housing
Household Composition
Charmhaven features high concentrations of group households, with a lower-than-average median household size
Family households account for 70.0% of all households, including 25.6% couples with children, 25.4% couples without children, and 17.4% single parent families. Non-family households make up the remaining 30.0%, with lone person households at 24.7% and group households comprising 5.1%. The median household size is 2.6 people, which is smaller than the Greater Sydney average of 2.7.
Frequently Asked Questions - Households
Local Schools & Education
The educational profile of Charmhaven exceeds national averages, with above-average qualification levels and academic performance metrics
The area's university qualification rate is 10.6%, significantly lower than Greater Sydney's average of 38.0%. This disparity presents both a challenge and an opportunity for targeted educational initiatives. Bachelor degrees are the most common at 7.8%, followed by postgraduate qualifications (1.4%) and graduate diplomas (1.4%). Trade and technical skills are prominent, with 43.7% of residents aged 15+ holding vocational credentials – advanced diplomas at 8.4% and certificates at 35.3%.
Educational participation is high, with 25.5% of residents currently enrolled in formal education. This includes 8.4% in primary education, 7.3% in secondary education, and 3.3% pursuing tertiary education.
Frequently Asked Questions - Education
Schools Detail
Nearby Services & Amenities
Transport
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility
Charmhaven has 43 active public transport stops, all of which are bus stops. These stops are served by 35 different routes that together facilitate 1,228 weekly passenger trips. The accessibility of these stops is rated as excellent, with residents typically living just 128 meters away from the nearest one. Most residents commute outward due to Charmhaven's predominantly residential nature. Cars remain the primary mode of transport, used by 94% of residents. On average, there are 1.5 vehicles per dwelling in the area, which is higher than the regional average.
According to the 2021 Census, 16.6% of residents work from home, a figure that may be influenced by COVID-19 conditions. The service frequency across all routes averages 175 trips per day, equating to approximately 28 weekly trips per individual stop.
Frequently Asked Questions - Transport
Transport Stops Detail
Health
Health performance in Charmhaven is a key challenge with a range of health conditions having marked impacts on both younger and older age cohorts
Charmhaven faces significant health challenges, as indicated by AreaSearch's assessment of mortality rates and chronic condition prevalence across various age groups. The area has a relatively low rate of private health cover at approximately 50% (~1,357 people), compared to Greater Sydney's 59.9% and the national average of 55.7%. Mental health issues and arthritis are the most common medical conditions in Charmhaven, affecting 11.9% and 11.0% of residents respectively.
Conversely, 58.1% of residents report having no medical ailments, compared to Greater Sydney's 74.6%. The working-age population faces notable health challenges due to elevated chronic condition rates. Charmhaven has a higher proportion of seniors (aged 65 and over) at 19.7% (539 people), compared to Greater Sydney's 15.5%. Health outcomes among seniors present some challenges, with national rankings broadly in line with the general population.
Frequently Asked Questions - Health
Cultural Diversity
Charmhaven is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics
Charmhaven, as per data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics Census 2016, showed lower cultural diversity with 88.7% born in Australia, 91.2% being citizens, and 95.3% speaking English only at home. Christianity was the predominant religion, comprising 50.2%. Buddhism, however, was overrepresented at 1.7%, compared to Greater Sydney's 4.1%.
In ancestry, Australian (32.0%), English (31.1%), and Scottish (8.5%) were the top groups, all higher than regional averages of 17.8%, 19.0%, respectively. Notable divergences included Australian Aboriginal at 5.2% (regional: 1.3%), New Zealand at 0.8% (regional: 0.5%), and Maltese at 0.5% (regional: 1.0%).
Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity
Age
Charmhaven's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms
The median age in Charmhaven is 39 years, which is higher than Greater Sydney's average of 37 years and close to Australia's national average of 38 years. The 65-74 age group comprises 10.6% of Charmhaven's population, compared to the Greater Sydney average, indicating an over-representation. Conversely, the 25-34 age group is under-represented at 13.4%. Post-2021 Census data shows that the 75-84 age group has grown from 5.6% to 6.7%, while the 55-64 cohort has declined from 13.3% to 12.6%. By 2041, Charmhaven's population is forecasted to experience substantial demographic changes. Notably, the 75-84 age group is projected to grow by 37%, reaching 252 people from 183. Residents aged 65 and older are expected to contribute to 56% of this growth. Meanwhile, the 0-4 and 5-14 age groups are anticipated to experience population declines.