Suburb profile · Rest of NSW
Nambucca Heads has an estimated 7,058 residents, up 5.7% since the 2021 Census, with 7 projects tracked in Nambucca Heads.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Nambucca Heads is an established coastal community located 352 kilometres south from Brisbane CBD. As of Aug 2026, the suburb of Nambucca Heads has an estimated population of approximately 7,058 residents, based on AreaSearch analysis synthesising aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) updates and quarterly national address registers. This represents an expansion of 383 people (5.7%) beyond the 6,675 persons recorded during the 2021 Census, reflecting moderate overall demographic growth.
Demographically, the suburb of Nambucca Heads exhibits a pronounced concentration of mature residents, featuring an elevated presence of people aged 75 to 84 along with a notable proportion 85 and over, which underpins a high share of lone person households. The community is characterised by lower-quartile income levels and lower average educational attainment, balanced by strong outright home ownership and a smaller average household size despite an above-average count of children per family.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 6,333 in 2006 and 6,872 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 7,058 (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%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $400 - 799, 37.8%.
Nambucca Heads ranks in the 82nd percentile nationally for sales activity and the 64th for amenities.
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 Nambucca Heads is $500 a week, up 6.5% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 14% below Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.7%.
14% below Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $332 in 2017, $562 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $232 in 2017, $344 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 95 Florence Wilmont Drive, Nambucca Heads NSW 2448 | $955,000 | 23 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 14 Nambucca Street, Nambucca Heads NSW 2448 | $805,000 | 22 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 10 West Street, Nambucca Heads NSW 2448 | $750,000 | 22 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 9 Glen Sheather Drive, Nambucca Heads NSW 2448 | $750,000 | 18 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 1/26 Wellington Drive, Nambucca Heads NSW 2448 | $990,000 | 16 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 22 Nelson Street, Nambucca Heads NSW 2448 | $580,000 | 16 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 2/2095 Giinagay Way, Nambucca Heads NSW 2448 | $350,000 | 11 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 33 Seaview Street, Nambucca Heads NSW 2448 | $680,000 | 9 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 14 West Street, Nambucca Heads NSW 2448 | $918,000 | 1 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 27 Bellwood Drive, Nambucca Heads NSW 2448 | $850,000 | 1 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 36 residential sales recorded since 29 May 2026 (the latest settled 23 Sep 2026), newest first. The median of these 36, houses and units together, was $750,000 (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 | $500 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +6.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.7% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $750k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $550k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $750,000 | Median of the 36 most recent residential sales, settled 29 May 2026 to 23 Sep 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $562 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +10.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $344 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | -3.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 4.0% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 3.3% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Kempsey - Nambucca | $511 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Kempsey - Nambucca, over 12 months | +6.7% | 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 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 139 tracked applications: 66 approved, 26 under assessment, 47 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 7 projects in Nambucca Heads (3 under construction) and 35 more in the surrounding area.
The Valla Urban Growth Area is a long-planned mixed-use precinct near the Pacific Highway at Valla, intended to address residential and…
Five three-bedroom luxury apartments offering breathtaking views of the Nambucca River and coastline, with high-end finishes, spacious…
Over 50s land lease community by Lincoln Place with no entry, exit or deferred management fees.
Improvements to the foreshore walk from the Visitor Information Centre to the V-Wall, including boardwalk replacement, signage, and art…
Construction of a 180-metre coastal protection wall including 40 metres of bleacher steps, new pedestrian footpath, beach stairs, ramps…
State-of-the-art facility providing greater access to skills training and employment outcomes through a mix of online, face-to-face, and…
Proposed adaptive re-use of the former Macksville Community Health Centre into tourism and visitor accommodation.
Black Wattle Estate is a six stage master planned residential land subdivision within the South Urunga Development Precinct, delivering…
A major $38 million sewerage infrastructure project expanding the network to Mylestom, Repton, and Raleigh.
Full replacement of the historic Urunga Boardwalk, part of the wider Urunga Precinct Revitalisation, following flood damage to the original…
Affordable housing complex providing 23 one-bedroom apartments for women over 55 at risk of homelessness.
Mixed-use development involving demolition, remediation, and construction of shop-top housing with 15 residential units and retail…
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: 2026 7, 2027 6, 2028 1, 2029 0, 2030 3, 2031 1. 11 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 139 substantial development applications lodged in and around Nambucca Heads over the past 5 years, 112 in the last 12 months; 26 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 2, 2022 8, 2023 5, 2024 9, 2025 3, 2026 (to Oct) 112.
Key application Alexandra Drive, Nambucca Heads Mixed Use | $28m
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 139 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 112 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 8.0 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 79th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 54 | ABS building approvals | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 66 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 26 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Nambucca Heads include: Vista Apartments (Construction); Nambucca Heads Lifestyle Estate (Construction); Nambucca River Foreshore Walk and Cultural Way (Completed); Main Beach Protective Seawall and Bleachers (Completed); and Valla Urban Growth Area (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Nambucca Heads spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Tourism, and Environmental & Disaster Management, among others.
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates targeted investment in infrastructure improvements that will benefit the local area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the suburb of Nambucca Heads vicinity.
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On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Nambucca Heads when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Nambucca Heads area has seen 125 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Nambucca Heads's current population of 7,058 has been supported by 54 approvals on average over recent years.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Nambucca Heads's approval levels have been slightly above the yearly average of 54, showing modest growth in recent years.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Nambucca Heads has grown by approximately 231 people, while 268 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.9 people added for each new dwelling approval. This low ratio indicates housing supply is outpacing population growth, potentially creating 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.
Nambucca Heads has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 7,058 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +5.7% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 229 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 34th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 6,675 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 383 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 30.84 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Nambucca Heads was estimated to be approximately 7,058 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 6,872 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Nambucca Heads has added approximately 383 people and shown a 5.74% increase from the 6,675 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is estimated at 229 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Nambucca Heads has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.6% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is driven by: Interstate migration (80.0%), Overseas migration (20.0%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 80.0% of overall population gains.
Nambucca Heads ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 57 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 98th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 38.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 14.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 16.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 39.9% | 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 | 57 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 9.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 9.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 7.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 9.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 9.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 13.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 19.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 13.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 5.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Nambucca Heads at 57 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 57 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 57 years as at August 2026, Nambucca Heads is 14 years older than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 19 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 Nambucca Heads compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 19.0% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Nambucca Heads compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 7.5% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Nambucca Heads show significant variance compared to Regional NSW. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (5.8% vs 2.9%) and 75-84 year-olds (13.4% vs 8.2%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 14.0% of the population in the suburb of Nambucca Heads as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 38.2% of the population in the suburb of Nambucca Heads as at August 2026.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 3% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $45,270 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 5th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $60,102 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $839 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Census personal income / week | $499 | 2021 Census, weekly | 3rd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 5.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,235 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 48.3% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is approximately $48,158. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $45,270.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is approximately $63,937. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $60,102.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is approximately $48,158 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $45,270 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is approximately $63,937 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $60,102 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Nambucca Heads's households (~37.8% / 1,114 households) is the $400 - 799 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 37.8% 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 Nambucca Heads is $839/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is $1,235/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is $499/wk.
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the suburb of Nambucca Heads had a median income among taxpayers of $45,270 with the average level standing at $60,102. This is lower than average on a national basis and compares to levels of $55,733 and $69,112 across Regional NSW respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $48,158 (median) and $63,937 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is $2,986 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Nambucca Heads's disposable income is $2,986 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Nambucca Heads face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 5% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 8.8% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 40.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,211 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 6,877 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,425 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Nambucca Heads has approximately 2,211 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 8.8%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Nambucca Heads stands at 8.8%, which is 4.7 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 Nambucca Heads is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (19.5% of employment), accommodation & food (14.4%), and retail trade (12.5%). Other significant employers include construction and education & training.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Nambucca Heads 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 Nambucca Heads is 40.5%, 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 Nambucca Heads shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 14.4% of the local workforce compared to 7.8% across Regional NSW. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The suburb of Nambucca Heads'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 7.7% growth, ranking 9th out of 37 regions nationally.
Nambucca Heads 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 | 9.5% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 2.1% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 13.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 31.6% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.1% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.7% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 45.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 24.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 8.9% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.4% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
13.7% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Nambucca Heads have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
45.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Nambucca Heads have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The suburb of Nambucca Heads ranks in the 14th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Nambucca Heads are: Certificate (31.6%), Advanced Diploma (9.7%), Bachelor Degree (9.5%).
24.3% of the population in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is currently engaged in formal education, including 8.9% in primary school, 7.4% in secondary school, 1.7% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is 936, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 4 schools within the suburb of Nambucca Heads, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,229 students.
The suburb of Nambucca Heads includes 2 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 1 combined school.
Nambucca Heads features high concentrations of lone person households but relatively few couples with children, 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 | 42.4% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 13.6% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 27.7% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 12.1% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 3.1% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,947 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 3,116 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 54.7% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.0 per family | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Nambucca Heads had 2,947 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 5.7% to an estimated 3,116 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is 2.0 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 54.7% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (42.4%), group households (3.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,612 family households, couples with children account for 13.6% of all households, couples without children at home 27.7%, and single parent families 12.1%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the suburb of Nambucca Heads shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 42.4% (versus 27.9% in Regional NSW). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 54.7% 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 Nambucca Heads 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 36.9% of the adult population are currently married, while 31.9% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 42.4% of all households in the suburb of Nambucca Heads, 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 3.1% of households, slightly below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%.
Nambucca Heads is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 12.6% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 3.8% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 96.2% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 88.4% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 87.4% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 7.1% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
Nambucca Heads was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 88.4% of its population being citizens, 87.4% born in Australia, and 96.2% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Nambucca Heads was found to be Christianity, which makes up 54.3% of people in Nambucca Heads. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 1.0% of the population, compared to 0.9% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Nambucca Heads are English, comprising 31.9% of the population, Australian, comprising 30.5% of the population, and Irish, comprising 8.9% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Australian Aboriginal is notably overrepresented at 7.1% of Nambucca Heads (vs 4.6% across Regional NSW), Scottish at 8.3% (vs 8.0%) and Welsh at 0.5% (vs 0.5%).
12.6% of the suburb of Nambucca Heads population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
3.8% of the population in the suburb of Nambucca Heads speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
7.1% of the suburb of Nambucca Heads population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
88.4% of the suburb of Nambucca Heads population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Nambucca Heads 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 | 35.0% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 47.8% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 73.1% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,300 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 20th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 17.3% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 13.0% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $280 | 2021 Census, weekly | 21st percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 33.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 98th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 35.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 98th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Nambucca Heads, 47.8% of homes are owned outright, 17.3% are owned with a mortgage, and 35.0% are rented.
According to the latest data, 73.1% of dwellings in the suburb of Nambucca Heads are houses.
In the suburb of Nambucca Heads, 11.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 13.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Nambucca Heads stands at 47.8%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is $1,300, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is $649, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Nambucca Heads, households with mortgages typically spend 35.8% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 33.4% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Nambucca Heads shows mortgage holders spending 35.8% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 33.4% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Nambucca Heads consists of 73.1% detached houses, 13.0% semi-detached dwellings, 11.3% apartments, and 2.6% other dwelling types.
Housing in Nambucca Heads consumes approximately 17.9% of median household income ($3,633 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Nambucca Heads show attached dwellings contributing 11% of approvals compared to 27% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 89% of applications versus 73% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health performance in Nambucca Heads 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 | 48.9% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 22nd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 51.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Need help with daily activities | 12.1% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 65.7% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 3.9% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
Around 48.9% of people in the suburb of Nambucca Heads are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the suburb of Nambucca Heads, 12.1% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
7.7% of people in the suburb of Nambucca Heads are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 6.0% of the suburb of Nambucca Heads population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
6.6% of people in the suburb of Nambucca Heads have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Nambucca Heads, 48.9% 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 | 35 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 35th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 47 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 40th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 370 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 21st percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 148 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 30 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 0.9 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 9.5% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 47 public transport stops within the suburb of Nambucca Heads.
The suburb of Nambucca Heads has 370 weekly trips across 30 routes, averaging 52 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 295 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 748 m away and the nearest GP 861 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 47 stops nearby, 370 weekly trips, access rating 35 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 64 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 64th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 748 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 861 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 919 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 954 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest school | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 10.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There is 1 long day care centre with 39 places in Nambucca Heads, about 8.3 children aged 0-4 per place.
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05Reports and tools
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Nambucca Heads when compared nationally.
Nambucca Heads has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 41% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Nambucca Heads's affordable property market has recorded 241 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 72% residential, 7% commercial and 21% vacant land transactions.
Nambucca Heads has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
Nambucca Heads ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 3% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Nambucca Heads face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 5% of areas assessed nationally.
Nambucca Heads faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Nambucca Heads features high concentrations of lone person households but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
Nambucca Heads is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
Nambucca Heads is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Nambucca Heads 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 low 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.
Nambucca Heads has an estimated 7,058 residents, up 5.7% since the 2021 Census, with 7 projects tracked in Nambucca Heads.
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 Nambucca Heads.
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 (SAL12898). 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 Nambucca Heads 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 Nambucca Heads 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.
