Suburb profile · Rest of NSW
Lithgow has an estimated 4,766 residents, down 3.8% since the 2021 Census, with 15 projects tracked in the area around Lithgow.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Located 107 kilometres west-northwest from Sydney CBD, the suburb of Lithgow has an estimated population of around 4,766 as of Aug 2026. This estimate draws on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. It represents a decrease of 190 people (3.8%) since the 2021 Census, when the population was 4,956 people. ERP means Estimated Resident Population. The area has a low average household size, a notable utilities employment base, an elevated presence of people aged 75 to 84, pronounced hospitality employment, substantial mining employment and strong service amenity. Residents include a high proportion of retirement-aged and older Australians, many in lone-person households; education levels and incomes are lower, with incomes in the lower quartile.
Lithgow has limited population expansion patterns and exceptionally high sales activity relative to its population size.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Located 107 kilometres west-northwest from Sydney CBD, the suburb of Lithgow has an estimated population of around 4,766 as of Aug 2026. This estimate draws on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. It represents a decrease of 190 people (3.8%) since the 2021 Census, when the population was 4,956 people. ERP means Estimated Resident Population. The area has a low average household size, a notable utilities employment base, an elevated presence of people aged 75 to 84, pronounced hospitality employment, substantial mining employment and strong service amenity. Residents include a high proportion of retirement-aged and older Australians, many in lone-person households; education levels and incomes are lower, with incomes in the lower quartile.
Lithgow has limited population expansion patterns and exceptionally high sales activity relative to its population size.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 5,478 in 2006 and 4,758 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 4,766 (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, 15.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $400 - 799, 31.1%.
Lithgow ranks in the 97th percentile nationally for sales activity and the 88th for infrastructure drivers.
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 Lithgow is $462 a week, up 6.3% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 20% below Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 4.3%.
20% below Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $306 in 2017, $467 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $278 in 2017, $340 in 2026. 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 Ordnance Avenue, Lithgow NSW 2790 | $925,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 68 Wrights Road, Lithgow NSW 2790 | $650,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 31 Methven Street, Lithgow NSW 2790 | $630,000 | 29 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 27 Sandford Avenue, Lithgow NSW 2790 | $500,000 | 23 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 106 Hassans Walls Road, Lithgow NSW 2790 | $580,000 | 21 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 90 Cupro Street, Lithgow NSW 2790 | $565,000 | 21 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 50 Lett Street, Lithgow NSW 2790 | $519,000 | 18 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 94 Sandford Avenue, Lithgow NSW 2790 | $450,000 | 16 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 49 Academy Street, Lithgow NSW 2790 | $605,000 | 14 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 137 Hassans Walls Road, Lithgow NSW 2790 | $470,000 | 7 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 47 residential sales recorded since 4 May 2026 (the latest settled 6 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 47, houses and units together, was $565,000 (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 | $462 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +6.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 4.3% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $553k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $505k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $565,000 | Median of the 47 most recent residential sales, settled 4 May 2026 to 6 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $467 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +5.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 4.4% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Lithgow - Mudgee | $522 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Lithgow - Mudgee, over 12 months | +4.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Central West | $514 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Central West, over 12 months | +6.3% | 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 44 tracked applications: 11 approved, 11 under assessment, 22 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Lithgow, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 15 projects in and around Lithgow, 4 of them under construction.
Council-owned land subdivision into 47 residential allotments developed in 2 construction stages. The project includes new roads, supporting infrastructure, and bulk earthworks to create housing opportunities in the growing Bowenfels area.
Upgrade of the signalling system with a new computer-based interlocking system to increase network capacity, meet operational requirements for new trains, and improve reliability and safety. Resignalling work at Lithgow is underway and will take up to three years to complete.
The Bowenfels rail viaducts are a series of heritage-listed railway viaducts and bridges over Farmers Creek on the Main Western Line at Bowenfels, designed in two stages (1870 by John Whitton and 1921 by New South Wales Government Railways engineering staff), built from 1870 to 1921.
Residential subdivision in South Bowenfels. Hynash constructed Stage 3 comprising 10 lots with roads, kerb and gutter, signage, and installation of utilities. Works for Stage 3 commenced January 2016 and were completed by early December 2016.
Sidey Place is a strata community of 12 new 2 and 3-bedroom homes in duplex arrangements, developed by Kirana Property. Located in the newer part of Wallerawang, it aims to offer an affordable housing option for the Lithgow area, with premium finishes, large open landscaped spaces, and private patios and courtyards.
The Wallerawang 9 Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is a utility-scale project located on 20 hectares of the decommissioned Wallerawang Power Station site near Lithgow in Central West NSW.
Greenspot's redevelopment of the former Wallerawang Power Station site near Lithgow, NSW. A State Assessed Rezoning Proposal over about 620 hectares, for around 1,200 homes and 3,500 jobs, was on public exhibition from 28 July to 25 August 2026.
The Great Western Battery is a 330 MW / 3,500 MWh grid-scale battery energy storage system by Neoen located in the Lithgow region of NSW, north of Wallerawang. It will provide dispatchable energy and grid stabilization to support the state's transition to renewable energy and is expected to be one of the largest in Australia.
The Foundations Portland is a landmark adaptive reuse and regeneration project transforming the heritage-listed Portland Cement Works into a regional cultural and residential hub. The 86-hectare masterplanned site features the iconic Guido van Helten silo murals, artisan retail, and event spaces.
The Katoomba Town Centre Place Activation Project delivers high street, arts and culture, and community infrastructure improvements across Katoomba Town Centre.
Council led upgrade program to Katoomba Street and adjacent laneways in Katoomba town centre. Works include continuation and completion of paving, kerb and gutter upgrades, new street furniture and lighting, outdoor dining and event spaces, tree planting and landscaping, public art and heritage interpretation, and improved wayfinding and directional signage.
Lilypad Katoomba is a boutique collection of 24 luxury 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments and penthouses completed in 2024 in the heart of Katoomba, offering mountain views, secure parking and high end finishes.
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 8 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2026 2, 2027 2, 2028 1, 2029 0, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 1. 3 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 44 substantial development applications lodged in and around Lithgow over the past 5 years, 21 in the last 12 months; 11 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 1, 2022 7, 2023 3, 2024 4, 2025 8, 2026 (to Oct) 21.
Key application 38 Maple Crescent, Lithgow Aged Care | $31m | 2 storeys
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 44 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 21 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 1.5 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 17th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 7 | ABS building approvals | 15th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 11 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 11 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Lithgow include: Lithgow Council Subdivision 47 Allotments (Approved); Lake Lyell Pumped Hydro Energy Storage (Under Assessment); Wallerawang 9 Battery Energy Storage System (Planning); Former Wallerawang Power Station Redevelopment (Planning); and Great Western Highway Upgrade - Katoomba to Lithgow (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Lithgow spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Energy, and Communities, among others.
The suburb of Lithgow ranks in the top 20% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Lithgow is exceptionally low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Lithgow area has seen 14 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Lithgow's current population of 4,766 has been supported by 7 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Lithgow has seen 1.5 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 684 people in the suburb of Lithgow, 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 Lithgow's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 7, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the suburb of Lithgow has seen 37 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential market oversupply.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Lithgow has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 4,766 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | -3.8% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Population density | 798 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 47th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | -1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | -1.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 4,956 | 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | -1.1% | 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 | 5.98 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Lithgow was estimated to be approximately 4,766 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 4,758 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Lithgow has lost approximately 190 people and shown a 3.83% decrease from the 4,956 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Lithgow is estimated at 797 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Lithgow has shown a compound annual growth rate of -1.2% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Lithgow is driven by: Overseas migration (100.0%), Natural increase (0.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 100.0% of overall population gains.
Lithgow hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 49 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 90th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 30.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 15.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 20.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 45.8% | 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 | 49 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 9.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 9.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 10.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 11.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 13.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 15.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Lithgow at 49 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 49 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 49 years as at August 2026, Lithgow is 6 years older than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 11 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 Lithgow compared to the Regional NSW region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 11.4% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Lithgow compared to the Regional NSW region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 9.6% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Lithgow show significant variance compared to Regional NSW. The most over-represented age group is 75-84 year-olds (11.4% vs 8.2%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 15.0% of the population in the suburb of Lithgow as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 30.3% of the population in the suburb of Lithgow as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 82% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $54,116 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 29th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $68,241 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,010 | 2021 Census, weekly | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $602 | 2021 Census, weekly | 12th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 10.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,422 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 41.4% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Lithgow is approximately $57,569. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $54,116.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Lithgow is approximately $72,595. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $68,241.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Lithgow is approximately $57,569 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $54,116 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Lithgow is approximately $72,595 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $68,241 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Lithgow's households (~31.1% / 705 households) is the $400 - 799 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Lithgow is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 31.1% 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 Lithgow is $1,010/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Lithgow is $1,422/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Lithgow is $602/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the suburb of Lithgow is lower than average on a national basis, with the median assessed at $54,116 while the average income stands at $68,241. 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 $57,569 (median) and $72,595 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Lithgow is $3,634 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Lithgow's disposable income is $3,634 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment drivers in Lithgow are experiencing difficulties, placing it among the bottom 13% of areas assessed across Australia.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 6.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 55.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,105 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 3,873 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,241 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Lithgow has approximately 2,105 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 6.1%. 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 Lithgow stands at 6.1%, which is 2.0 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 Lithgow is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (15.3% of employment), accommodation & food (11.3%), and retail trade (11.0%). Other significant employers include public administration & safety and education & training.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Lithgow 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 Lithgow is 55.0%, 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%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The suburb of Lithgow shows notable specialisation in mining, which employs 6.8% of the local workforce compared to 2.5% across Regional NSW. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 2.7, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The suburb of Lithgow's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 11.8% growth, ranking 6th out of 37 regions nationally.
Lithgow faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 11.0% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 15.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 31.0% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.5% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 44.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 24.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 2.6% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.1% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.4% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
15.2% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Lithgow have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
44.3% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Lithgow have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The suburb of Lithgow ranks in the 13th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Lithgow are: Certificate (31.0%), Bachelor Degree (11.0%), Advanced Diploma (9.5%).
24.2% of the population in the suburb of Lithgow is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.1% in primary school, 6.4% in secondary school, 2.6% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Lithgow is 936, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 4 schools within the suburb of Lithgow, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,563 students.
The suburb of Lithgow includes 3 primary schools, 1 secondary school.
Lithgow features high concentrations of lone person households and single parent families but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.0 people | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 43.7% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 15.4% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 23.7% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 13.3% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,266 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 2,179 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 53.6% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.8 per family | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Lithgow had 2,266 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has decreased by approximately 3.8% to an estimated 2,179 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Lithgow is 2.0 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 53.6% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (43.7%), group households (3.0%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,215 family households, couples with children account for 15.4% of all households, couples without children at home 23.7%, and single parent families 13.3%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the suburb of Lithgow shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 43.7% (versus 27.9% in Regional NSW). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 53.6% compared to 68.8% in Regional NSW. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Lithgow have an average of 1.8 children, matching the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 36.4% of the adult population are currently married, while 35.8% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 43.7% of all households in the suburb of Lithgow, higher 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 3.0% of households, slightly below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%.
Lithgow ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 13.6% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 6.4% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 93.6% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 89.5% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 86.4% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 4.7% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
Lithgow was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 89.5% of its population being citizens, 86.4% born in Australia, and 93.6% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Lithgow was found to be Christianity, which makes up 56.8% of people in Lithgow. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Lithgow are English, comprising 30.9% of the population, Australian, comprising 30.4% of the population, and Irish, comprising 9.0% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Welsh is notably overrepresented at 1.0% of Lithgow (vs 0.5% across Regional NSW), Australian Aboriginal at 4.7% (vs 4.6%) and Scottish at 8.2% (vs 8.0%).
13.6% of the suburb of Lithgow population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
6.4% of the population in the suburb of Lithgow speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
4.7% of the suburb of Lithgow population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
89.5% of the suburb of Lithgow population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Lithgow 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 | 35.6% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 41.0% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 81.9% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,326 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 21st percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 23.4% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 13.4% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $280 | 2021 Census, weekly | 21st percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 27.7% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 91st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 30.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 90th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Lithgow, 41.0% of homes are owned outright, 23.4% are owned with a mortgage, and 35.6% are rented.
According to the latest data, 81.9% of dwellings in the suburb of Lithgow are houses.
In the suburb of Lithgow, 4.0% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 13.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Lithgow stands at 41.0%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Lithgow is $1,326, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Lithgow is $742, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Lithgow, households with mortgages typically spend 30.3% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 27.7% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Lithgow is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Lithgow shows mortgage holders spending 30.3% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 27.7% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Lithgow consists of 81.9% detached houses, 13.4% semi-detached dwellings, 4.0% apartments, and 0.7% other dwelling types.
Housing in Lithgow consumes approximately 17.0% of median household income ($4,373 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Lithgow show attached dwellings contributing 33% of approvals compared to 18% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 67% of applications versus 82% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in Lithgow is a key challenge relative to locations nationally with a range of health conditions having marked impacts on both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 52.1% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 43rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 55.1% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 8.9% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 66.5% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
Around 52.1% of people in the suburb of Lithgow are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the suburb of Lithgow, 8.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
9.2% of people in the suburb of Lithgow are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 6.5% of the suburb of Lithgow population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.4% of people in the suburb of Lithgow have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Lithgow, 52.1% 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 high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 85 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 85th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 105 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 74th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 1,981 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 49th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 46 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 60 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.0 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 12.0% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 105 public transport stops within the suburb of Lithgow.
The suburb of Lithgow has 1,981 weekly trips across 60 routes, averaging 283 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 124 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 523 m away and the nearest child care centre 538 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 105 stops nearby, 1,981 weekly trips, access rating 85 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 79 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 79th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 523 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 538 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 585 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 651 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest bank | 757 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 803 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 838 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 998 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 3.0 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 191 places in Lithgow, about 1.4 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 Lithgow 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 Lithgow.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Lithgow is exceptionally low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Lithgow has very high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 12% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Lithgow's affordable property market has recorded 151 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 97% residential, 2% commercial and 1% vacant land transactions.
Lithgow has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
Lithgow hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
Income figures position the area below 82% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
Employment drivers in Lithgow are experiencing difficulties, placing it among the bottom 13% of areas assessed across Australia.
Lithgow faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Lithgow features high concentrations of lone person households and single parent families but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
Lithgow ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Lithgow is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Lithgow is a key challenge relative to locations nationally with a range of health conditions having marked impacts on both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Lithgow has an estimated 4,766 residents, down 3.8% since the 2021 Census, with 15 projects tracked in the area around Lithgow.
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 Lithgow.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Oct 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026 and taxable income FY 2024. 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 (SAL12356). 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, 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 Lithgow 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 Lithgow 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.
