Chart Color Schemes
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.
est. as @ -- *
2021 Census | -- people
Sales Activity
Curious about local property values? Filter the chart to assess the volume and appreciation (including resales) trends and regional comparisons, or scroll to the map below view this information at an individual property level.
Find a Recent Sale
Sales Detail
Population
Lisarow 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 Feb 2026, Lisarow's population is estimated at around 5,471, reflecting a 3.2% increase since the 2021 Census which reported a population of 5,299 people. This change was inferred from AreaSearch's estimate of the resident population being 5,333 as of June 2024, along with 7 validated new addresses since the Census date. The suburb's population density is approximately 503 persons per square kilometer. Lisarow's growth rate of 3.2% since the census is within 0.5 percentage points of its SA4 region's growth rate of 3.7%. Overseas migration contributed about 69.0% of Lisarow's population gains in recent periods. AreaSearch uses ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area, released in 2024 with a 2022 base year, and NSW State Government's SA2 level projections where applicable, released in 2022 with a 2021 base year.
Growth rates by age group from these aggregations are applied to Lisarow for the years 2032 to 2041. By 2041, Lisarow's population is projected to expand by 56 persons, reflecting a reduction of 1.6% in total over the 17-year period.
Frequently Asked Questions - Population
Development
The level of residential development activity in Lisarow is very low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally by AreaSearch
AreaSearch analysis of ABS building approval numbers indicates that Lisarow has received around 5 dwelling approvals per year. Between FY21 and FY25, approximately 27 homes were approved, with an additional 3 approved in FY26 to date. Each dwelling built over these years attracted an average of 1 new resident annually.
This pace of new supply has kept up with or exceeded demand, providing ample buyer choices and room for population growth beyond current forecasts. The average construction cost value of new dwellings was $319,000. In FY26, commercial approvals totaled $14.0 million, suggesting steady commercial investment activity. Compared to Greater Sydney, Lisarow's building activity is significantly lower, at 73.0% below the regional average per person. This constrained new construction typically reinforces demand and pricing for existing homes.
Nationally, Lisarow also reflects market maturity with possible development constraints, recording lower activity than the national average. Recent development in Lisarow has been exclusively detached houses, maintaining its traditional low-density character focused on family homes appealing to those seeking space. Notably, developers are constructing more detached housing (83.0%) compared to the existing pattern at Census, reflecting persistent strong demand for family homes despite densification trends. The estimated population per dwelling approval in Lisarow is 1774 people, indicating its quiet, low-activity development environment. With stable or declining population forecasts, Lisarow may experience less housing pressure, creating favorable conditions for buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions - Development
Infrastructure
Lisarow has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 30% nationally
Changes to local infrastructure significantly influence an area's performance. AreaSearch identified five projects likely impacting the region. Notable projects are Narara Ecovillage, Narara District Master Plan, Gosford Bypass, and Central Coast Local Roads Package. The following details those most relevant:.
Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.
INFRASTRUCTURE SEARCH
Denotes AI-based impression for illustrative purposes only, not to be taken as definitive under any circumstances. Please follow links and conduct other investigations from the project's source for actual imagery. Developers and project owners wishing us to use original imagery please Contact Us and we will do so.
Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure
Mardi Water Treatment Plant Upgrade
An $82.5 million major upgrade to the Mardi Water Treatment Plant to enhance drinking water quality and security for over 210,000 residents. Key works include the construction of a new Dissolved Air Flotation (DAF) clarifier, flocculation tanks, and upgraded chemical dosing facilities to handle poor raw water conditions such as algal blooms and high turbidity. The project will ensure a reliable supply of up to 160 million litres of water per day.
Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy
State-wide NSW planning reforms to enable diverse low and mid-rise housing, including dual occupancies, terraces, townhouses, and apartment buildings up to 6 storeys. The policy applies to residential zones within 800m of 171 nominated transport hubs and town centres. Stage 1 (dual occupancies) commenced 1 July 2024, and Stage 2 (mid-rise apartments and terraces) commenced 28 February 2025. In June 2025, further amendments adjusted aircraft noise thresholds and clarified storey definitions to expand the policy's reach. The initiative is expected to facilitate approximately 112,000 additional homes by 2030.
Sydney Metro
Australia's largest public transport project, comprising four main lines. As of February 2026, the City & Southwest M1 line is operational to Sydenham, with the Sydenham-to-Bankstown conversion reaching 80% completion and intensive dynamic train testing underway for a late 2026 opening. Sydney Metro West has achieved major tunneling milestones at Westmead, with fit-out contracts worth $11.5 billion signed to target a 2032 opening. The Western Sydney Airport line remains under heavy construction with stations and viaducts progressing for an opening aligned with the airport in late 2026.
Mariyung Fleet (New Intercity Fleet)
The Mariyung Fleet is a 610-carriage double-deck electric train fleet (D sets) replacing the aging V-set fleet across the NSW intercity network. Delivered by the RailConnect consortium, the trains feature 2x2 seating, charging ports, dedicated luggage/bicycle spaces, and enhanced accessibility with wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets. The fleet operates in 4, 6, 8, or 10-car formations. Passenger services commenced on the Central Coast & Newcastle Line on 3 December 2024 and the Blue Mountains Line on 13 October 2025. South Coast Line services are scheduled to begin in the first half of 2026. The project includes the Kangy Angy Maintenance Facility and extensive corridor upgrades such as platform extensions and signaling modifications.
Narara District Master Plan
Development and delivery of master plans for the Narara District including Lisarow, Wyoming, and Niagara Park to support housing and urban development. The district is within the Central Coast Council local government area.
Newcastle-Sydney and Wollongong-Sydney Rail Line Upgrades
Program of upgrades to existing intercity rail corridors linking Newcastle-Central Coast-Sydney and Wollongong-Sydney to reduce travel times and improve reliability. Current scope includes timetable and service changes under the Rail Service Improvement Program, targeted network upgrades (signalling, power, station works) and the introduction of the Mariyung intercity fleet on the Central Coast & Newcastle Line, alongside Federal planning led by the High Speed Rail Authority for a dedicated Sydney-Newcastle high speed corridor.
Narara Ecovillage
Narara Ecovillage is a 64 hectare community title eco housing development on the former Gosford horticultural research station at Narara, planned for around 150 low impact homes plus shared community facilities, food growing spaces and integrated energy and water infrastructure. Stage 1 is largely complete and occupied, while Stage 2 civil works finished at the end of 2023 with most of the 40 plus new lots sold, owners preparing development applications and a growing number of homes under construction or already occupied; a planning proposal and amended planning agreement are progressing to support a future Stage 3 with more diverse housing types and small scale local services. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
M1 Pacific Motorway Kariong to Somersby Widening
Widening of M1 Pacific Motorway between Kariong and Somersby interchanges to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion on this critical corridor between Sydney and Newcastle.
Employment
The exceptional employment performance in Lisarow places it among Australia's strongest labour markets
Lisarow has a skilled workforce with essential services sectors well represented. The unemployment rate was 1.8% in the past year, with an estimated employment growth of 3.3%. As of September 2025, 2,865 residents were employed and the unemployment rate was 2.4% lower than Greater Sydney's rate of 4.2%.
Workforce participation was similar to Greater Sydney's 70.0%. According to Census responses, 33.7% of residents worked from home, though Covid-19 lockdown impacts should be considered. Employment in Lisarow is concentrated in health care & social assistance, retail trade, and education & training, with a strong specialization in health care & social assistance at 1.3 times the regional level. Professional & technical employment was lower at 6.9% compared to the regional average of 11.5%.
Many residents commute elsewhere for work based on Census data. Between September 2024 and September 2025, employment levels increased by 3.3% and labour force increased by 3.2%, leaving unemployment broadly flat. In comparison, Greater Sydney recorded employment growth of 2.1%, labour force growth of 2.4%, with unemployment rising slightly to 4.4%. National employment forecasts from Jobs and Skills Australia, released in May-25, project national employment growth of 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years. Applying these projections to Lisarow's employment mix suggests local employment should increase by 6.6% over five years and 13.9% over ten years.
Frequently Asked Questions - Employment
Income
The economic profile demonstrates above-average performance, with income metrics exceeding national benchmarks based on AreaSearch comparative assessment
The suburb of Lisarow had an average national income level according to AreaSearch's aggregation of latest ATO data for the financial year ending June 2023. The median income among taxpayers in Lisarow was $52,465, with an average income of $67,830. These figures compared to Greater Sydney's median and average incomes of $60,817 and $83,003 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 8.86% from July 2023 to September 2025, estimated current incomes would be approximately $57,113 (median) and $73,840 (average). Census data showed Lisarow's household income ranked at the 71st percentile ($2,087 weekly), with personal income at the 51st percentile. The predominant income cohort in Lisarow was 32.6% of locals (1,783 people) earning between $1,500 and $2,999 weekly, mirroring regional levels where 30.9% fell into this bracket. Higher earners made up a substantial presence with 30.9% exceeding $3,000 weekly. Housing expenses accounted for 15.1% of income, while strong earnings placed residents in the 73rd percentile for disposable income. The suburb's SEIFA income ranking was in the 7th decile.
Frequently Asked Questions - Income
Housing
Lisarow is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership
In Lisarow, as per the latest Census evaluation, 82.7% of dwellings were houses, with the remaining 17.3% comprising semi-detached homes, apartments, and other types. This differs from Sydney metropolitan areas, which had 55.9% houses and 44.1% other dwellings. Lisarow's home ownership rate was higher at 34.5%, with the rest of dwellings either mortgaged (51.1%) or rented (14.4%). The median monthly mortgage repayment in Lisarow was $2,139, lower than Sydney metro's $2,427. The median weekly rent in Lisarow was $435, compared to Sydney metro's $470. Nationally, Lisarow's mortgage repayments were higher at $2,139 versus Australia's average of $1,863, and rents were substantially above the national figure of $375.
Frequently Asked Questions - Housing
Household Composition
Lisarow features high concentrations of family households, with a higher-than-average median household size
Family households comprise 81.2% of all households, including 43.1% couples with children, 25.7% couples without children, and 12.1% single parent families. Non-family households make up the remaining 18.8%, with lone person households at 17.1% and group households comprising 1.5%. The median household size is 2.9 people, which is larger than the Greater Sydney average of 2.7.
Frequently Asked Questions - Households
Local Schools & Education
Lisarow performs slightly above the national average for education, showing competitive qualification levels and steady academic outcomes
The area's university qualification rate is 23.9%, significantly lower than Greater Sydney's average of 38.0%. Bachelor degrees are most common at 16.3%, followed by postgraduate qualifications (5.2%) and graduate diplomas (2.4%). Vocational credentials are prevalent, with 39.6% of residents aged 15+ holding them, including advanced diplomas (12.0%) and certificates (27.6%). Educational participation is high at 30.2%, with 10.3% in primary education, 9.2% in secondary education, and 4.3% pursuing tertiary education.
Educational participation is notably high, with 30.2% of residents currently enrolled in formal education. This includes 10.3% in primary education, 9.2% in secondary education, and 4.3% pursuing tertiary education.
Frequently Asked Questions - Education
Schools Detail
Nearby Services & Amenities
Transport
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility
Lisarow has 37 active public transport stops offering a mix of train and bus services. These stops are served by 43 individual routes, collectively facilitating 1,473 weekly passenger trips. Transport accessibility is rated good, with residents typically located 326 meters from the nearest stop. Most residents commute outward due to Lisarow's primarily residential nature. Car remains the dominant transport mode at 93%, with an average of 1.8 vehicles per dwelling, above the regional average. According to the 2021 Census, a high 33.7% of residents work from home, potentially reflecting COVID-19 conditions.
Service frequency averages 210 trips per day across all routes, equating to approximately 39 weekly trips per individual stop.
Frequently Asked Questions - Transport
Transport Stops Detail
Health
Health performance in Lisarow is lower than average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across the board, though to a considerably higher degree among older age cohorts
Lisarow faces significant health challenges based on AreaSearch's assessment. Mortality rates and prevalence of chronic conditions are notably high, with common health issues more prevalent among older age groups.
Private health cover stands at approximately 54% (~2940 people), slightly higher than the average SA2 area but lower than Greater Sydney's 59.9%. Mental health issues affect 9.3% and asthma impacts 8.2% of Lisarow residents, with 66.5% reporting no medical ailments compared to Greater Sydney's 74.6%. Working-age residents show a higher prevalence of chronic conditions than average. The area has 18.3% (1001 people) aged 65 and over, higher than Greater Sydney's 15.4%. Health outcomes among seniors present challenges but rank lower nationally compared to the broader population.
Frequently Asked Questions - Health
Cultural Diversity
Lisarow ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics
Lisarow, as per data from the 2016 Census, had a cultural diversity index below average. Its population was predominantly Australian-born at 82.3%, with 93.3% being citizens and 92.6% speaking English only at home. Christianity was the dominant religion in Lisarow, comprising 56.9% of its population, compared to 49.2% across Greater Sydney.
Regarding ancestry, the top three groups were English (31.3%), Australian (29.9%), and Irish (8.2%). Notably, Korean (0.6%), Maltese (0.5%), and Russian (0.3%) ethnicities were relatively overrepresented in Lisarow compared to regional averages of 1.1%, 1.0%, and 0.4% respectively.
Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity
Age
Lisarow's median age exceeds the national pattern
Lisarow's median age is 41 years, which is significantly higher than Greater Sydney's average of 37 and slightly older than Australia's median of 38. Compared to Greater Sydney, Lisarow has a notably higher proportion of people aged 55-64 (13.0%) and a lower proportion of those aged 25-34 (7.7%). According to the 2021 Census, Lisarow's population aged 15-24 grew from 12.6% to 14.1%, while those aged 75-84 increased from 5.0% to 6.3%. Conversely, the proportion of people aged 25-34 decreased from 9.5% to 7.7%. Demographic projections suggest significant changes in Lisarow's age profile by 2041. The 75-84 age group is projected to grow by 32%, adding 109 residents to reach 454. Residents aged 65 and older are expected to account for 77% of the population growth, while declines are anticipated for those aged 25-34 and 65-74.