Suburb profile · Rest of NSW
Lake Cathie has an estimated 5,401 residents, up 25.7% since the 2021 Census, with 6 projects tracked in Lake Cathie.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of Lake Cathie is located 298 kilometres north-northeast from Sydney CBD. Its estimated population is around 5,401 as of Aug 2026, based on AreaSearch's analysis of aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. This is an increase of 1,105 people (25.7%) since the 2021 Census, when 4,296 people were recorded.
Lake Cathie combines strong population expansion and development activity with high outright home ownership and above-average children per family. Its population includes a notable presence of people aged 75 to 84yo and an elevated 65 to 74yo demographic, as well as a high proportion of retirement aged and older Australians, largely couples without children. The area also has a pronounced utilities employment base, and sales volumes are significantly above average relative to population.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Lake Cathie is located 298 kilometres north-northeast from Sydney CBD. Its estimated population is around 5,401 as of Aug 2026, based on AreaSearch's analysis of aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. This is an increase of 1,105 people (25.7%) since the 2021 Census, when 4,296 people were recorded.
Lake Cathie combines strong population expansion and development activity with high outright home ownership and above-average children per family. Its population includes a notable presence of people aged 75 to 84yo and an elevated 65 to 74yo demographic, as well as a high proportion of retirement aged and older Australians, largely couples without children. The area also has a pronounced utilities employment base, and sales volumes are significantly above average relative to population.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 3,039 in 2006 and 5,340 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 5,401 (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, 19.7%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $800 - 1,499, 28.8%.
Lake Cathie ranks in the 93rd percentile nationally for development activity and the 86th 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 Lake Cathie is $638 a week, up 4.7% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 10% above Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.5%.
10% above Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $426 in 2017, $644 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $285 in 2017, $362 in 2024. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 Orana Drive, Lake Cathie NSW 2445 | $750,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 21 Aquarius Avenue, Lake Cathie NSW 2445 | $1,180,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 32 Fiona Crescent, Lake Cathie NSW 2445 | $1,175,000 | 15 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 33 Evans Street, Lake Cathie NSW 2445 | $805,000 | 11 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 1 Shearwater Court, Lake Cathie NSW 2445 | $1,830,000 | 7 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 6 Miala Street, Lake Cathie NSW 2445 | $835,000 | 7 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 16 Sandy Shores Avenue, Lake Cathie NSW 2445 | $1,350,000 | 4 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 75 Seaside Drive, Lake Cathie NSW 2445 | $950,000 | 31 Aug 2026 | Street address |
| 2/1649 Ocean Drive, Lake Cathie NSW 2445 | $660,000 | 28 Aug 2026 | Unit |
| 12 Eagle Place, Lake Cathie NSW 2445 | $1,310,000 | 27 Aug 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 48 residential sales recorded since 28 Apr 2026 (the latest settled 30 Sep 2026), newest first. The median of these 48, houses and units together, was $940,000 (a different set from the medians above). Source: NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch, to September 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 | $638 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +4.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.5% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $950k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $775k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $940,000 | Median of the 48 most recent residential sales, settled 28 Apr 2026 to 30 Sep 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $644 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +4.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.5% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Port Macquarie | $595 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Port Macquarie, over 12 months | +5.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Mid North Coast | $558 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Mid North Coast, over 12 months | +5.7% | 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 123 tracked applications: 13 approved, 27 under assessment, 83 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Lake Cathie, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 6 projects in Lake Cathie (1 under construction) and 37 more in the surrounding area.
A 704-lot masterplanned residential estate located between Lake Cathie and Bonny Hills on the NSW Mid North Coast, developed by St Vincent's Foundation with King & Campbell as principal consultant. The estate offers house and land packages across staged releases, with Stage 6C currently selling.
The first release at Catarina Beachfront Estate, The Pacific features a boutique collection of luxury apartments and exclusive penthouses. Designed by ELK Architecture, the project is part of a larger masterplan for Catarina Estate which will include a future retail precinct with cafes, shops, and hospitality venues, as well as conference facilities, a…
A five-building mixed-use development including 95 apartments with tourist accommodation, about 1240sq m of commercial space, indoor recreation facilities, and parking for 176 vehicles.
Upgrade delivering 17 flexible learning spaces (including 2 support unit classrooms), a new hall, new bus bay, refurbished library and special programs unit, and landscaping. Works completed December 2021 to enhance capacity and learning environments for the growing Lake Cathie community.
A 68-lot residential estate in Lake Cathie offering a mix of coastal and rural living, with lots ranging in size from 465m2 to 2,972m2. The estate is fully sold out and registered, with new home builds largely complete.
Coastal shared pathway connecting beaches and recreational areas, providing safe pedestrian and cycling access between key destinations along the Port Macquarie coastline.
Thrumster Business Park is an eco-friendly industrial precinct in Port Macquarie covering 120,000 sqm across 60+ lots. The development features two distinct zones: Precinct 1 for community-oriented businesses and Precinct 2 for traditional industrial use.
Masterplanned residential community offering 245 premium homesites in a relaxed coastal lifestyle setting. Located 10 minutes from Port Macquarie CBD, the development includes 30 hectares of protected nature reserves with flat, elevated blocks.
The commercial heart of the Sovereign Hills master planned community. Stage One is complete. The Town Centre is planned to expand to over 60,000sqm, incorporating diverse retail, a Business and Technology Park, a Health and Wellbeing Precinct, commercial offices, and a community library and town green.
Drainage infrastructure upgrade for the Tuffins Lane sporting precinct to improve field conditions and facility usability during wet weather periods.
The NSW Government is investing $265 million to upgrade Port Macquarie Base Hospital on Wrights Road, Port Macquarie. The project is in master planning and concept design.
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council has adopted a revised Master Plan for the Lake Cathie Foreshore Reserve, updating the original 2018 plan. The plan sets out a staged vision for the foreshore including a continuous coastal walkway, safer and more accessible paths and crossings, formalised parking to protect tree roots, new picnic shelters, shade trees…
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 18 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 5, 2027 4, 2028 2, 2029 0, 2030 4, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 2. 17 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 123 substantial development applications lodged in and around Lake Cathie over the past 5 years, 71 in the last 12 months; 27 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 1, 2022 18, 2023 16, 2024 10, 2025 7, 2026 (to Oct) 71.
Key application 1379 Ocean Drive, Lake Cathie Aged Care | $18m | 1 storey Approved
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 123 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 71 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 17.9 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 82 | ABS building approvals | 75th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 13 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 27 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Lake Cathie include: The Pacific at Catarina Beachfront Estate (Planning); Lake Cathie Foreshore Reserve Master Plan (Approved); Bonny Hills Seniors Living - Bonny View Drive (Proposed); Glen Eden Estate (Completed); and Rainbow Beach Estate (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Lake Cathie spans multiple sectors including Communities, Residential Development, and Environmental & Disaster Management, among others.
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AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places residential development activity in Lake Cathie higher than 93% of real estate markets across the country.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Lake Cathie area has seen 176 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Lake Cathie's current population of 5,401 has been supported by 82 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Lake Cathie has seen 17.9 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 59 people in the suburb of Lake Cathie, 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 Lake Cathie's approval levels have been slightly above the yearly average of 82, showing modest growth in recent years.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Lake Cathie has grown by approximately 1,180 people, while 411 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.
Lake Cathie 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 | 5,401 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +25.7% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 281 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 36th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +5.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +4.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 4,296 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 1,105 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +5.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +5.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 19.20 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Lake Cathie was estimated to be approximately 5,401 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 5,340 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Lake Cathie has added approximately 1,105 people and shown a 25.72% increase from the 4,296 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Lake Cathie is estimated at 281 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Lake Cathie has shown a compound annual growth rate of 4.5% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Lake Cathie is driven by: Interstate migration (85.0%), Overseas migration (15.0%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 85.0% of overall population gains.
Lake Cathie ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 52 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 94th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 36.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 15.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 15.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 39.3% | 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 | 52 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 9.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 6.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 8.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 14.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 19.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 13.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Lake Cathie at 52 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 52 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 52 years as at August 2026, Lake Cathie is 9 years older than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 14 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 Lake Cathie compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 19.7% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Lake Cathie compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 6.3% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Lake Cathie show significant variance compared to Regional NSW. The most over-represented age groups are 75-84 year-olds (13.8% vs 8.2%) and 65-74 year-olds (19.7% vs 12.3%). The most under-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (6.3% vs 11.5%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 15.5% of the population in the suburb of Lake Cathie as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 36.1% of the population in the suburb of Lake Cathie as at August 2026.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $54,246 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 30th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $65,657 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,275 | 2021 Census, weekly | 18th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $658 | 2021 Census, weekly | 20th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 14.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,485 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 30.0% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Lake Cathie is approximately $57,707. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $54,246.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Lake Cathie is approximately $69,846. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $65,657.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Lake Cathie is approximately $57,707 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $54,246 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Lake Cathie is approximately $69,846 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $65,657 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Lake Cathie's households (~28.8% / 494 households) is the $800 - 1,499 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Lake Cathie is the $800 - 1,499 group, representing about 28.8% 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 Lake Cathie is $1,275/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Lake Cathie is $1,485/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Lake Cathie is $658/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the suburb of Lake Cathie is lower than average on a national basis, with the median assessed at $54,246 while the average income stands at $65,657. This contrasts to Regional NSW's figures of a median income of $55,733 and an average income of $69,112. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $57,707 (median) and $69,846 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Lake Cathie is $4,710 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Lake Cathie's disposable income is $4,710 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment performance in Lake Cathie has been broadly consistent with national averages.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 48.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,136 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 4,408 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,196 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Lake Cathie has approximately 2,136 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.7%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Lake Cathie stands at 2.7%, which is 1.4 percentage points below Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Lake Cathie is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (18.1% of employment), construction (13.9%), and education & training (12.9%). Other significant employers include retail trade and accommodation & food.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Lake Cathie 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 Lake Cathie is 48.7%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. The relatively low participation rate may indicate limited job opportunities or demographic factors affecting workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The suburb of Lake Cathie shows notable specialisation in construction, which employs 13.9% of the local workforce compared to 9.7% 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 Lake Cathie's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 7.7% growth, ranking 9th out of 37 regions nationally.
Educational attainment in Lake Cathie sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 13.3% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 18.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 32.9% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.7% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 37.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 24.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.6% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.1% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
18.3% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Lake Cathie have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
37.2% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Lake Cathie have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The suburb of Lake Cathie ranks in the 45th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Lake Cathie are: Certificate (32.9%), Bachelor Degree (13.3%), Advanced Diploma (11.7%).
24.5% of the population in the suburb of Lake Cathie is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.6% in primary school, 7.1% in secondary school, 2.4% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Lake Cathie is 1007, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 1 schools within the suburb of Lake Cathie, with a combined enrollment of approximately 390 students.
The suburb of Lake Cathie includes 1 primary school.
Lake Cathie features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few group households, with an average household size in line with Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 23.1% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 24.2% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 40.9% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 9.8% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 1.1% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,713 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 2,154 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 75.8% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.0 per family | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Lake Cathie had 1,713 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 25.7% to an estimated 2,154 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Lake Cathie is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 75.8% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (23.1%), group households (1.1%), and other household types (0.1%).
Of the 1,298 family households, couples with children account for 24.2% of all households, couples without children at home 40.9%, and single parent families 9.8%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the suburb of Lake Cathie shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 75.8% (versus 68.8% in Regional NSW). This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the suburb of Lake Cathie have an average of 2.0 children, slightly above the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 55.9% of the adult population are currently married, while 24.9% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 23.1% of all households in the suburb of Lake Cathie, similar to the average for Regional NSW of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 1.1% of households, below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
The latest Census data sees Lake Cathie placing among the least culturally diverse areas in the country when compared across a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 11.0% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 97.7% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 94.3% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 89.0% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
Lake Cathie was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 89.0% of its population born in Australia, 94.3% being citizens, and 97.7% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Lake Cathie was found to be Christianity, which makes up 58.6% of people in Lake Cathie. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Lake Cathie are English, comprising 32.8% of the population, Australian, comprising 32.7% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 9.4% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Maltese is notably overrepresented at 0.6% of Lake Cathie (vs 0.4% across Regional NSW), French at 0.5% (vs 0.4%) and Australian Aboriginal at 3.2% (vs 4.6%).
11.0% of the suburb of Lake Cathie population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
2.3% of the population in the suburb of Lake Cathie speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
3.2% of the suburb of Lake Cathie population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
94.3% of the suburb of Lake Cathie population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Lake Cathie 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 | 17.7% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 54.0% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 91.1% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,850 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 28.3% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 5.4% | 2021 Census | 37th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $380 | 2021 Census, weekly | 55th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 29.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 95th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 33.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 96th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Lake Cathie, 54.0% of homes are owned outright, 28.3% are owned with a mortgage, and 17.7% are rented.
According to the latest data, 91.1% of dwellings in the suburb of Lake Cathie are houses.
In the suburb of Lake Cathie, 3.6% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 5.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Lake Cathie stands at 54.0%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Lake Cathie is $1,850, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Lake Cathie is $815, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Lake Cathie, households with mortgages typically spend 33.5% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 29.8% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Lake Cathie is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Lake Cathie shows mortgage holders spending 33.5% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 29.8% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Lake Cathie consists of 91.1% detached houses, 5.4% semi-detached dwellings, 3.6% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Lake Cathie consumes approximately 14.8% of median household income ($5,521 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Lake Cathie show attached dwellings contributing 18% of approvals compared to 9% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 82% of applications versus 91% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Density increases remain below national trends.
Lake Cathie's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with prevalence of common health conditions quite low across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 51.1% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 36th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 60.2% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 7.0% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 72.4% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
Around 51.1% of people in the suburb of Lake Cathie are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the suburb of Lake Cathie, 7.0% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
6.8% of people in the suburb of Lake Cathie are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.9% of the suburb of Lake Cathie population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.4% of people in the suburb of Lake Cathie have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Lake Cathie, 51.1% 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 low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 38 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 38th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 43 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 37th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 238 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 16th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 123 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 32 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.5 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 14.5% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 43 public transport stops within the suburb of Lake Cathie.
The suburb of Lake Cathie has 238 weekly trips across 32 routes, averaging 34 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 212 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 779 m away and the nearest pharmacy 948 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 43 stops nearby, 238 weekly trips, access rating 38 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 53 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 779 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 948 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 948 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 11.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 11.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 11.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 12.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 15.4 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 3 long day care centres with 271 places in Lake Cathie, about 0.7 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 Lake Cathie 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 Lake Cathie.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places residential development activity in Lake Cathie higher than 93% of real estate markets across the country.
Lake Cathie has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 35% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Lake Cathie's resilient property market has recorded 132 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 83% residential and 17% vacant land transactions.
Lake Cathie lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Lake Cathie ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
Income levels sit below national averages according to AreaSearch assessment.
Employment performance in Lake Cathie has been broadly consistent with national averages.
Educational attainment in Lake Cathie sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
Lake Cathie features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few group households, with an average household size in line with Regional NSW.
The latest Census data sees Lake Cathie placing among the least culturally diverse areas in the country when compared across a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Lake Cathie is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Lake Cathie's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with prevalence of common health conditions quite low across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be in line with the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Lake Cathie has an estimated 5,401 residents, up 25.7% since the 2021 Census, with 6 projects tracked in Lake Cathie.
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 Lake Cathie.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Sep 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Aug 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 (SAL12251). 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 (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, 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 Lake Cathie 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 Lake Cathie 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.
