Nambucca Heads

Suburb (SAL)

Rest of NSW / Kempsey - Nambucca

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Aug 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats SAL12898 How we calculate this
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Suburb (SAL) Boundary Analysis

This analysis uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, which can materially differ from Statistical Areas (SA2) even when sharing the same name.

SAL boundaries are defined by Australia Post and the Australian Bureau of Statistics to represent commonly-known suburb names used in postal addresses.

Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census data collection and may combine multiple suburbs or use different geographic boundaries. For comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.

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Sales ActivityProperty Sales Trends in Nambucca Heads

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The median house price in Nambucca Heads is $728k, with units at $512k. House values have moved 5.5% a year compounded over five years.

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Nambucca Heads

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Nambucca Heads has an estimated 6,939 residents, up from 6,675 at the 2021 Census — a change of 264 people, or 4.0%. Growth has averaged 0.7% a year over five years. 256 new addresses have been validated here since Census night. That puts 225 residents on each square kilometre. Population is estimated from ABS Estimated Resident Population releases and GNAF address data, re-based from the 2021 Census and updated annually.

Detail

Analysis of ABS demographic updates alongside address registrations verified by AreaSearch since the Census indicates the population of the suburb of Nambucca Heads is approximately 6,939 as of May 2026. This represents an expansion of 264 people (4.0%) compared to the 2021 Census, which registered 6,675 people. This shift is derived from a resident population of 6,871 estimated by AreaSearch following an evaluation of the June 2025 ABS ERP release, supplemented by 256 validated new addresses since the Census. Such a population size translates to a density of 225 persons per square kilometer, offering ample room per resident and capacity for prospective development.

The suburb of Nambucca Heads's 4.0% post-census growth tracks within 0.3 percentage points of the wider SA3 region (4.3%), signaling competitive growth characteristics. Interstate migration served as the primary growth driver, contributing approximately 80.0% of the overall population gains in recent times. AreaSearch incorporates ABS and Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2, published in 2024 using 2022 as the base year, or NSW State Government SA2 projections from 2022 with a 2021 base year where required. Age cohort growth rates from these projections are applied to all areas for the years 2032 to 2041. Looking at future demographic trends, population growth is projected to be slightly below the median for non-metropolitan Australian localities, with the area projected to add 810 residents by 2041 based on compiled SA2 projections, representing an overall expansion of 10.7% over the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
Total population for the suburb of Nambucca Heads was estimated to be approximately 6,939 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 6,871 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the suburb of Nambucca Heads changed since 2021?
The suburb of nambucca heads has added approximately 264 people and shown a 3.96% increase from the 6,675 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
The population density in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is estimated at 225 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
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.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
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.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Nambucca Heads

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185 new dwellings have been approved in Nambucca Heads over the past five years, an average of 37 a year. That places the area in the 55th percentile for residential development activity nationally, about 5 approvals per 1,000 residents a year. Of the 40 dwellings approved in the latest reporting year, 83% were detached houses and the rest townhouses or apartments. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 105, running ahead of that longer-run average. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this Suburb (SAL) boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

Evaluation of ABS building approvals by AreaSearch shows that the suburb of Nambucca Heads averaged approximately 37 new residential approvals annually, amounting to an estimated 185 dwellings over the last 5 financial years. Thus far in FY-26, 97 approvals have been logged. With an average of 1.2 residents moving to the area per year for each built home between FY-21 and FY-25, the market exhibits a healthy equilibrium between supply and demand, fostering stable conditions, while new dwellings carry an average construction value of $453,000, indicating developer activity is oriented toward high-end residential options.

Furthermore, commercial approvals totaling $11.6 million have been registered this financial year, pointing to a moderate volume of commercial development. Compared to the Rest of NSW, the suburb of Nambucca Heads maintains equivalent per-capita construction volumes, mirroring regional trends and supporting market equilibrium. New residential approvals consist of 82.0% standalone houses and 18.0% medium to high-density dwellings, preserving the local low-density profile centered on spacious family housing. Averaging approximately 175 people per dwelling approval, the suburb of Nambucca Heads displays typical low-density traits. Future demographic models project that the suburb of Nambucca Heads will gain 742 residents by 2041 relative to the most recent AreaSearch quarterly figures. Under current building trends, the supply of new dwellings is expected to satisfy demand, creating favorable buyer conditions and potentially supporting population expansion beyond current forecasts.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the suburb of Nambucca Heads recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the suburb of Nambucca Heads area has seen 78 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Nambucca Heads's current population of 6,939 has been supported by 37 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the suburb of Nambucca Heads's development activity compare to the broader region?
The suburb of Nambucca Heads has seen 0.55 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.58 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 175 people in the suburb of Nambucca Heads, compared to one for every 192 in the broader region.
Is the suburb of Nambucca Heads keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 742 people by 2041, around 371 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels appear more than sufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling. This suggests that population growth may exceed trend projections in the coming years, supported by a robust housing supply.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Nambucca Heads's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 37, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
The population in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is expected to grow by 742 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 371 new dwellings. This calculation is based on the current census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling in the area.
How does recent development compare to population growth in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Nambucca Heads has grown by approximately 538 people, while 185 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.9 people added for each new dwelling approval. This indicates solid population growth supported by housing development activity.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 37 approvals per year and a population of 6,939, the market appears to be adequately supplied relative to projected housing demand in recent years, suggesting that developers should have a longer-term approach when considering new projects. With the population expected to increase by 742 people by 2041, around 371 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels appear more than sufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling. This suggests that population growth may exceed trend projections in the coming years, supported by a robust housing supply.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Nambucca Heads

Development applications around Nambucca Heads

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SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Nambucca Heads

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AreaSearch tracks 7 current infrastructure and development projects inside Nambucca Heads, worth an estimated $50 million. A further 36 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $4.25 billion. 17 are already under construction and 14 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, sports & recreation and communities, precincts & urban renewal. Records are compiled from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, council planning portals and public announcements, reviewed and updated daily, then ranked by proximity, construction stage, completion horizon and project scale.

Detail

Local infrastructure projects, major developments, and planning schemes significantly affect regional outcomes. AreaSearch has identified 7 projects expected to influence the local area, including the Valla Urban Growth Area, Vista Apartments, Nambucca Heads Lifestyle Estate, and the conversion of 14-22 Boundary Street Macksville into serviced apartments and tourist accommodation, with details on the most relevant developments provided below.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Nambucca Heads include: Valla Urban Growth Area (Construction); Vista Apartments (Construction); Nambucca Heads Lifestyle Estate (Construction); 14-22 Boundary Street Macksville - Serviced Apartments / Tourism Accommodation Conversion (Dev. Application); and Nambucca River Foreshore Walk and Cultural Way (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Nambucca Heads spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Residential Development, and Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
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.
How does the suburb of Nambucca Heads's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
The suburb of Nambucca Heads shows moderate infrastructure development relative to national averages, with opportunities for future growth and investment.
Valla Urban Growth Area
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2030
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The Valla Urban Growth Area is a long-planned mixed-use precinct near the Pacific Highway at Valla, intended to address residential and industrial land shortages on the NSW Mid North Coast. Stage One is under construction and will deliver 14 fully serviced industrial lots, with 13 lots expected to be released from mid to late 2026. Current works include the first internal road, water, sewer, stormwater, electrical, lighting and communications infrastructure. Future stages are planned to include about 700 homes, a town centre, further industrial land, schools, open space and public amenities.Council expects the completed precinct to support up to 2800 jobs and add about AUD 380 million per year to the local economy.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Vista Apartments
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Five three-bedroom luxury apartments offering breathtaking views of the Nambucca River and coastline, with high-end finishes, spacious open-plan layouts, secure access, internal lift to all levels, and two undercover parking spaces per apartment.

Residential Development

Nambucca Heads Lifestyle Estate
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Over 50s land lease community by Lincoln Place with no entry, exit or deferred management fees. Amenities include community hall, BBQ area and access to medical services and supermarkets. Ongoing home releases; new homes coming soon with enquiries handled by the on-site team.

Residential Development

Nambucca River Foreshore Walk and Cultural Way
Category: Tourism
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2024
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Improvements to the foreshore walk from the Visitor Information Centre to the V-Wall, including boardwalk replacement, signage, and art installations to promote cultural, historical, and environmental awareness of the Nambucca River. The project includes the addition of public art elements as part of ongoing enhancements.

Tourism

Main Beach Protective Seawall and Bleachers
Category: Environmental & Disaster Management
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2024
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Construction of a 180-metre coastal protection wall including 40 metres of bleacher steps, new pedestrian footpath, beach stairs, ramps, shower, and viewing platform at Main Beach, Nambucca Heads, to protect against coastal erosion and enhance public amenities.

Environmental & Disaster Management

TAFE NSW Nambucca Heads Connected Learning Centre
Category: Education & Training
Stage: Completed | Est. Comp: 2021
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

State-of-the-art facility providing greater access to skills training and employment outcomes through a mix of online, face-to-face, and blended learning options. The CLC offers digital technologies like simulations and virtual learning experiences, and a range of courses including education support, business, visitor information services, and hospitality. Features include collaboration pods, computer hub, connected learning classrooms, maker space, media lounge, mobile training units, print shop, tech bar, virtual learner support space, workbooth, free parking, bike racks, digital library services, guest Wi-Fi, student kitchenette, vending machines, student lounge, laptop borrowing, and an outdoor learning area.

Education & Training

14-22 Boundary Street Macksville - Serviced Apartments Conversion
Category: Tourism
Stage: Dev. Application | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Proposed adaptive re-use of the former Macksville Community Health Centre into tourism and visitor accommodation. DA2023/067 (Romsen Pty Ltd) seeks to convert the existing low-rise hospital buildings into 80 self-contained serviced apartments and a 9-room staff residence, with a new 25 m swimming pool, private restaurant, gym conversion, multi-purpose sports court and upgraded landscaping. The site is zoned R1 General Residential and is bounded by Giinagay Way to the east and Nancye Roberts Drive to the west.As at the latest available council reporting the application remained under assessment with additional information requested; no public evidence of final determination has been identified as of mid-2026.

Tourism

Black Wattle Estate - Urunga
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2030
Source / Links: Link 1   

Black Wattle Estate is a six stage master planned residential land subdivision within the South Urunga Development Precinct, delivering about 320 housing lots from roughly 600 sqm up to 1,450 sqm. Stage 1 civil works and registration are complete with most lots sold, while later stages will add local parks, walking and cycle paths and bushland buffers. The estate is promoted as an environmentally and socially sustainable coastal community close to Urunga township, beaches, the Kalang River and regional centres such as Coffs Harbour and Bellingen.

Residential Development

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Nambucca Heads

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2,201 residents of Nambucca Heads are employed, from a labour force of 2,415. Unemployment sits at 8.9%, with participation at 40.5%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 6.6% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

The suburb of Nambucca Heads possesses a workforce distributed across professional and industrial occupations, with essential services heavily represented, alongside an unemployment rate of 8.9% according to statistical area data compiled by AreaSearch. In March 2026, 2,201 residents were employed, while the unemployment rate is 4.8% higher than the Regional NSW mark of 4.1%, highlighting potential for economic improvement, and the workforce participation rate is low at 40.5% compared to 60.6% in Regional NSW. Census data indicates only 9.5% of working residents worked from home, though this figure reflects the influence of COVID-19 pandemic restrictions.

The primary sectors employing local residents are healthcare & social assistance, accommodation & food services, and retail trade. The suburb of Nambucca Heads shows a pronounced concentration in accommodation & food services, where employment levels reach 1.8 times the regional benchmark. Conversely, public administration & safety is underrepresented, accounting for 4.1% of local workers compared to the regional benchmark of 7.5%. The comparison between local Census jobs and the resident workforce suggests a limited supply of employment opportunities within the immediate area. AreaSearch assessment of SALM and ABS data for broader statistical divisions reveals that during the 12 months ending March 2026, the local labor force contracted by 3.2% and total employment fell by 4.2%, which caused the unemployment rate to rise by 0.9 percentage points. Over the same timeframe, Regional NSW recorded a 0.9% decrease in employment, a 0.4% decline in the labor force, and a 0.5 percentage point increase in unemployment. National employment projections released in May-25 by Jobs and Skills Australia help illustrate potential long-term labor demand in the suburb of Nambucca Heads. These five and ten-year forecasts are mapped to local employment patterns to project future trends. Locally, employment is estimated to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.8% over ten years, based on weighting the national sector forecasts where overall employment is projected to rise by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, though industry trends vary and this simple extrapolation does not account for local population dynamics.

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
As of March 2026, the suburb of Nambucca Heads has approximately 2,201 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 8.9%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
How does the suburb of Nambucca Heads's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Nambucca Heads stands at 8.9%, which is 4.8 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%.
What are the major employment sectors in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
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.
How has employment changed recently in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
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 rise. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
What is the workforce participation rate in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
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.
Which industries are over-represented in the suburb of Nambucca Heads's employment market?
The suburb of nambucca heads shows notable specialization in accommodation & food, which employs 14.4% of the local workforce compared to 7.8% regionally. 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.
What are the employment growth prospects for the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the suburb of Nambucca Heads's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 6.6% over the next five years and 13.8% over ten years. This exceeds the national forecast of 6.6% over five years, suggesting the area's industry composition is well-positioned for future growth. Steady growth is anticipated across multiple sectors, providing diverse employment opportunities.
How does the job market in the suburb of Nambucca Heads compare nationally?
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 3.9% growth, ranking 4.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
Skilled workers will find good opportunities in the suburb of Nambucca Heads, with skilled sectors accounting for 35.1% of employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (19.5%), education & training (9.1%), and professional & technical (4.7%). With projected employment growth of 6.6% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Nambucca Heads

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Median household income in Nambucca Heads is $839 a week (about $44,000 a year), with median personal income at $499 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $38,936 a year against an average of $53,456. Household income is from the 2021 Census; taxable income is from ATO Taxation Statistics for the latest financial year available, indexed forward using the ABS Wage Price Index.

Detail

Taxpayer statistics compiled by AreaSearch for financial year 2023 indicate that incomes in the suburb of Nambucca Heads average below the national benchmark. Taxpayers in the suburb of Nambucca Heads recorded a median income of $38,936 and an average income of $53,456, compared to $52,390 and $65,215 respectively in Regional NSW. Adjusted for a Wage Price Index increase of 10.32% since financial year 2023, local values are estimated at approximately $42,954 (median) and $58,973 (average) as of March 2026. According to the Census, household, family, and personal incomes all place between the 0th and 3rd percentiles nationwide.

The weekly income band of $400 - 799 is the most common, accounting for 37.8% of residents (2,622 people), contrasting with the surrounding region where the $1,500 - 2,999 band is most common at 29.9%. Local households face notable financial constraints, with 48.3% managing on weekly budgets below $800. Housing cost burdens are pronounced, with only 82.1% of income remaining after housing costs, placing the area in the 3rd percentile.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is approximately $42,954. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $38,936.
What is the average taxable income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is approximately $58,973. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $53,456.
How does the median taxable income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is approximately $42,954 compared to $57,797 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $38,936 and $52,390 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is approximately $58,973 compared to $71,945 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $53,456 and $65,215 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the suburb of Nambucca Heads according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~37.8% / 2,622 persons) of the suburb of Nambucca Heads's population is the $400 - 799 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the suburb of Nambucca Heads compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 37.8% of the population. In comparison, Regional NSW's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 29.9% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is $839/wk.
What is the median family income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is $1,235/wk.
What is the median personal income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is $499/wk.
How does the suburb of Nambucca Heads's income rank nationally?
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-23, the suburb of Nambucca Heads's median income among taxpayers is $38,936, with an average of $53,456. This is lower than average on a national basis, and compares to Regional NSW's median of $52,390 and average of $65,215. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $42,954 (median) and $58,973 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is $2,986 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the suburb of Nambucca Heads's disposable income compare to the region?
The suburb of nambucca heads's disposable income is $2,986 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Nambucca Heads

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Nambucca Heads had 2,947 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 73% detached houses and 11% apartments. 17% are owned with a mortgage, 35% rented and 48% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $280 a week and the median mortgage repayment $1,300 a month. Rent absorbs 33.4% of household income here and mortgage repayments 35.8%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

Census data shows that housing types in the suburb of Nambucca Heads consist of 73.1% standalone homes and 26.9% other dwelling styles like apartments and semi-detached units, compared to 82.6% houses and 17.4% other dwellings in Regional NSW. Fully owned properties make up 47.8% of dwellings, which is higher than the rate in Regional NSW, with the remaining tenure comprised of mortgaged properties (17.3%) and rental properties (35.0%). The median mortgage repayment was $1,300 per month, and the median rent was $280 weekly, both below the Regional NSW figures of $1,733 and $330.

Nationally, local mortgage commitments are lower than the Australian average of $1,863, and weekly rents sit below the national average of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
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.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Nambucca Heads are houses?
According to the latest data, 73.1% of dwellings in the suburb of Nambucca Heads are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Nambucca Heads are apartments or units?
In the suburb of Nambucca Heads, 11.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 13.0% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Nambucca Heads stands at 47.8%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is $1,300, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
What is the median weekly rent in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
The median weekly rent in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is $280, compared to $330 in Regional NSW.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
In the suburb of Nambucca Heads, 6.8% of rentals are $0-149/week, 64.3% are $150-349/week, 28.9% are $350-649/week, 0.0% are $650-949/week, and 0.0% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is $649, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
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.
How crowded are homes in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the suburb of Nambucca Heads compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the suburb of Nambucca Heads shows mortgage holders spending 35.8% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% regionally), while renters spend 33.4% of income on rent (vs 23.0% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
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.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
Based on the area's tenure composition, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $649. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $1,300/month, and renters paying $1,212/month.
How affordable is housing in the suburb of Nambucca Heads relative to local incomes?
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.
How do proposed developments compare to existing housing types in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
Recent development applications in Nambucca Heads show attached dwellings contributing 15% of approvals compared to 27% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 85% of applications versus 73% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Nambucca Heads

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Nambucca Heads counted 2,947 households at the 2021 Census, averaging 2.0 people each. 14% are couples with children, fewer than in 95% of areas nationally, against 28% couples without children. 42% of households are people living alone, and families average 2.0 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Families comprise 54.7% of all households in the suburb of Nambucca Heads, consisting of couples with children (13.6%), couples without children (27.7%), and single parent households (12.1%). Non-family households represent the remaining 45.3%, consisting of single-person households at 42.4% and group living situations at 3.1%. The median household occupancy is 2.0 people, below the Regional NSW average of 2.4.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Nambucca Heads had 2,947 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 4.0% to an estimated 3,064 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median 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.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 54.7% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (42.4%), group households (3.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 1,612 family households, 13.6% are couples with children, 27.7% are couples without children at home, and 12.1% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the suburb of Nambucca Heads compare to regional household patterns?
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% regionally). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 54.7% compared to the regional 68.8%. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
What is the average family size?
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.
What are the marriage patterns in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
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.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 42.4% of all households in the suburb of Nambucca Heads, higher than the regional average of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 3.1% of households, well below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Nambucca Heads

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13.7% of adults in Nambucca Heads hold a university qualification, including 9.5% with a bachelor degree and 2.1% with postgraduate qualifications, lower than 86% of areas nationally. A further 31.6% hold a vocational qualification. 4 schools serve the area, with 1,229 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 936 against a national benchmark of 1,000. Qualifications come from the 2021 Census; school enrolments, ICSEA and results come from ACARA's current release.

Detail

The suburb of Nambucca Heads faces academic challenges, with university completion rates at 13.7%, below the NSW benchmark of 32.2%. Bachelor degrees represent the most common university qualification at 9.5%, with postgraduate degrees at 2.1% and graduate diplomas at 2.1%. Vocational and technical training is common, with 41.3% of residents aged 15+ holding a vocational qualification, including 9.7% with advanced diplomas and 31.6% with certificates. A total of 24.3% of local residents are enrolled in formal education programs. This cohort includes 8.9% attending primary schools, 7.4% in secondary schools, and 1.7% enrolled in tertiary institutions.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the suburb of Nambucca Heads have university qualifications?
13.7% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Nambucca Heads have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the suburb of Nambucca Heads have no formal qualifications?
45.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Nambucca Heads have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% regionally.
How does the suburb of Nambucca Heads's education level compare to national averages?
The suburb of nambucca heads ranks in the 14th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Nambucca Heads are: Certificate (31.6%), Advanced Diploma (9.7%), Bachelor Degree (9.5%).
What proportion of the suburb of Nambucca Heads's population is currently attending educational institutions?
24.3% of the population in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is currently engaged in formal education, with 8.9% in primary school, 7.4% in secondary school, 1.7% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
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.
How many schools are located within the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
There are 4 schools within the suburb of Nambucca Heads, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,229 students.
What types of schools are available in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
The suburb of nambucca heads includes 2 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 1 combined school.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Nambucca Heads

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Nambucca Heads

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Public transport in Nambucca Heads reaches 48 stops on 32 routes, timetabled for about 380 services a week. The typical home sits about 300 m from its nearest stop. Households keep an average of 0.9 vehicles. Stop and service counts are built from operators' published GTFS timetables and refresh with each timetable release; vehicle ownership is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Public transport services in the suburb of Nambucca Heads include 48 active stops, utilizing a combination of trains and buses. A total of 32 routes run through these stops, providing 384 passenger trips each week. Transport access is favorable, with residents living an average of 296 meters from the nearest stop. The suburb of Nambucca Heads is primarily residential, and the majority of working residents travel outside the suburb for work, with private vehicles serving as the primary transit mode at 94% and walking accounting for 4%. Household vehicle ownership averages 0.9 cars per dwelling, which is below the regional average, and a relatively low 9.5% of residents work from home based on 2021 Census data collected under COVID-19 pandemic conditions.

Transit routes average 54 daily trips, translating to approximately 8 passenger departures per week at each individual transit stop.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Nambucca Heads?
There are 48 public transport stops within the suburb of Nambucca Heads.
How frequent are the transport services in Nambucca Heads?
the suburb of Nambucca Heads has 384 weekly trips across 32 routes, averaging 54 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Nambucca Heads?
On average, residential properties are 296 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Nambucca Heads

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51.0% of residents in Nambucca Heads report no long-term health condition, a less healthy profile than 94% of areas nationally. 12.1% need daily assistance with core activities, and 48.1% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 7.4 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Significant health concerns exist across the suburb of Nambucca Heads, with mortality rates and chronic illnesses impacting multiple age demographics, while private health insurance coverage is low, held by approximately 48% of residents (~3,339 people). This is lower than the Regional NSW coverage rate of 51.9% and the national rate of 55.7%. Arthritis and mental health conditions are the most prevalent health issues in the area, affecting 14.4% and 10.3% of residents respectively, while 51.0% of the population reported no chronic conditions compared to 63.3% in Regional NSW. Residents of working age exhibit elevated rates of chronic illness.

The suburb of Nambucca Heads has a higher concentration of seniors, with 37.8% of the population aged 65 and over (2,622 people) compared to 23.4% in Regional NSW. Health outcomes among local seniors broadly align with national benchmarks for their demographic.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the suburb of Nambucca Heads have private health insurance?
Around 48.1% of people in the suburb of Nambucca Heads are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 51.9% in the broader region of Regional NSW.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
In the suburb of Nambucca Heads, 12.1% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
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.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
Diabetes affects 6.0% of the the suburb of Nambucca Heads population, while in the surrounding region, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
6.6% of people in the suburb of Nambucca Heads have heart disease. Across the region of Regional NSW, 4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the suburb of Nambucca Heads compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the suburb of Nambucca Heads, 48.1% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional NSW sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 51.9%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Nambucca Heads

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Nambucca Heads is largely Australian-born, at 87.4% of residents, with 3.8% speaking a language other than English at home. The largest reported ancestries are English (31.9%) and Australian (30.5%). 7.1% of residents identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Cultural diversity in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is lower than average, with citizens making up 88.4% of the population, 87.4% of residents born in Australia, and 96.2% using only English at home. Christianity is the predominant religion, followed by 54.3% of residents, compared to 55.9% across Regional NSW. The top parental ancestries reported in the suburb of Nambucca Heads are English (31.9%), Australian (30.5%), and Irish (8.9%). Other notable groups include Australian Aboriginal residents, who are represented at 7.1% of the population compared to 4.6% regionally, Scottish ancestry at 8.3% compared to 8.0% regionally, and Welsh ancestry at 0.5% compared to 0.5% regionally.

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
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.
What is the most common religion in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
The main religion in Nambucca Heads was found to be Christianity, which makes up 54.3% of people in Nambucca Heads. This compares to 55.9% across Regional NSW.
What are the top countries of origin in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
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% regionally), Scottish at 8.3% (vs 8.0%) and Welsh at 0.5% (vs 0.5%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
12.6% of the the suburb of Nambucca Heads population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% regionally.
What percentage of the the suburb of Nambucca Heads population speaks a language other than English at home?
3.8% of the population in the suburb of Nambucca Heads speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in the wider region.
How many people in the suburb of Nambucca Heads identify as Australian Aboriginal?
7.1% of the the suburb of Nambucca Heads population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
88.4% of the the suburb of Nambucca Heads population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Nambucca Heads

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The median resident of Nambucca Heads is 57, older than 98% of areas nationally. 16.4% of residents are aged 15 to 34. Age cohorts are not raw Census counts: the Census split is re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections.

Detail

The median age of 57 years in the suburb of Nambucca Heads exceeds the Regional NSW average of 43 and the national average of 38. The population shows a high concentration of residents aged 65 - 74 (18.7%) compared to Regional NSW, but a lower proportion of young adults aged 25 - 34 (7.7%). The proportion of residents aged 65 - 74 is higher than the national figure of 9.4%. Since the 2021 Census, the 35 to 44 age cohort increased from 8.2% to 9.3%, while the 55 to 64 group declined from 15.6% to 13.9%.

Looking ahead to 2041, demographic models project that the 35 to 44 age cohort will grow by 170 people (26%), from 645 to 816, while the 55 to 64 and 15 to 24 cohorts are expected to decrease in size.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
According to the latest data, the median age in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is 57 years.
How does the suburb of Nambucca Heads's median age compare to broader areas?
At 57 years, Nambucca Heads is 14 years older than the Regional NSW average (43 years) and 19 years older than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
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 18.7% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
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 7.7% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Nambucca Heads show significant variance compared to the Regional NSW region. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (5.6% vs 2.9%) and 75-84 year-olds (13.5% vs 8.2%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is 14.1%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the suburb of Nambucca Heads?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the suburb of Nambucca Heads is 37.8%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Nambucca Heads

Data currency Refreshed

9 of 14 data sections on this page were updated within the last 12 months — the newest current to Aug 2026.

Everything is aggregated to the Suburb (SAL) boundary shown above, on a 2021 Census baseline. Only 3 sections — housing, households and cultural diversity — still wait on the 2026 Census.

The ledger — source, cycle and currency by section

Section Source & update cycle Currency
Updated within the last 12 months 9 sections
Population ABS, GNAF, Geoscience Australia Annual (ABS ERP) May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release) and updated with new dwellings from GNAF address data. Current to May 2026, with the 2021 Census supplying the small-area baseline.
Age profile ABS, Geoscience Australia, State governments Annual May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Age cohorts are re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections, current to May 2026. Each cohort is held as a Census baseline and a current estimate.
Development & approvals ABS, GNAF Monthly (ABS approvals) Jun 2026 2 months ago headline measures · May 2026 baseline
Property sales & rents Valuer General, Rental Board, ABS Weekly sales, quarterly rents Aug 2026 this month all 21 measures
Sales from the state Valuer General register, refreshed weekly, and rents from quarterly rental bond lodgements. Both are read live each time this page loads, current to Aug 2026.
Infrastructure projects Infrastructure Australia, State agencies, Local governments Daily Aug 2026 this month all 7 projects tracked here
Project pipeline maintained continuously from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, local government and public announcements. Records are added and revised daily; this area was last updated Aug 2026.
Employment ABS, DEWR, JSA Quarterly (ABS SALM) Mar 2026 5 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Unemployment and labour force from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, current to Mar 2026. The growth outlook applies Department of Employment (now Jobs and Skills Australia) forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to the local industry mix, so it measures sector composition rather than local expansion and makes no allowance for population growth. Job demand comes from the same agency via its Internet Vacancy Index; industry and occupation structure from the 2021 Census.
Education ABS, ACARA Annual (ACARA) Aug 2026 this month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Transport ABS, State Transport Departments Each timetable release Jul 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Services & amenities Provider directories, ACECQA Continuous Jul 2026 last month all 14 measures
Annual and financial-year sources 2 sections
Income ABS, ATO Annual (ATO) FY 2023 3 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
ATO taxable income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index. Census household income provides the distribution detail.
Health ABS, ATO Annual 2024 2 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Census-measured — next update: 2026 Census 3 sections No more current small-area source exists for these, so they are labelled as Census-measured rather than implied to be current.
Housing ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 30 measures
Households ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 18 measures
Cultural diversity ABS, Geoscience Australia 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 44 measures

"Currency" is the most recent release feeding that section. Where the Census supplies the structural baseline underneath a current headline figure, the row says so.

How the numbers are built

Population

The Census provides the small-area baseline, aggregated from mesh blocks to this boundary. It is then re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release), and new dwellings built since Census night are counted from address data — 256 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (6,675 at the 2021 Census → 6,939 now). Annual growth rates are compound (CAGR), not simple averages.

Age profile

Cohort shares are not raw Census counts. Every cohort is held as a pair — the Census baseline and a current estimate — and the split is re-based using ERP and state population projections, current to May 2026. Median age is the Census median plus modelled change since. Charts that show both are labelled "2021 Census vs Current Estimate".

Property sales

Sourced from the state valuation authority's sales register — current, not Census, and refreshed weekly. Medians are calculated from settled transactions in the period shown; periods with very low transaction counts are flagged or suppressed, because a handful of sales can move a median substantially.

Rents

Derived from state rental bond lodgement data, by dwelling type and bedroom count. Bonds are lodged at the start of a new tenancy, so this reflects new lettings, not the whole rented stock.

Development & infrastructure

Building approvals come from current ABS releases; development applications are collected from council and state planning portals; the infrastructure pipeline is compiled from Infrastructure Australia and local government sources. Applications are matched to this boundary by address or coordinates, so very recent lodgements may not yet appear.

Employment & income

Industry and occupation structure comes from the Census, but the headline labour-market indicators do not. Unemployment and labour force are derived from ABS Small Area Labour Markets (quarterly). The employment outlook applies Department of Employment forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to this area's own industry mix (the agency is now Jobs and Skills Australia), as does the Internet Vacancy Index used for job demand. Because it is weighted on industry composition alone, that outlook carries no allowance for local population growth — in fast-growing areas the real rise in local jobs will typically be higher. Income combines Census household income with ATO taxable-income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index.

Education, transport & amenities

School enrolments, ICSEA and performance come from ACARA's current release, not the Census. Public transport stops and service frequency are derived from GTFS timetable feeds published by state transport departments. Services and amenities are proximity and count scores built from provider directories, refreshed on their own cycle. The Census contributes only the travel-to-work and qualification measures.

Rankings and benchmarks. Where we rank this area, the comparison set is every area of the same boundary type — suburbs against suburbs, SA2s against SA2s. Benchmarks compare this area against its greater capital city region and the national figure for the same measure and period.

Limits worth knowing. Small areas carry larger error margins, and the ABS introduces small random adjustments to Census counts to protect confidentiality — so totals may not sum exactly. Estimates re-based from regional data describe the area's expected trajectory, not a direct count of it. Figures are indicative for research and are not financial, planning or valuation advice.

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.

Common questions about this page

How do Nambucca Heads suburb boundaries differ from Statistical Areas?
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/statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
Where does the data on this Nambucca Heads page come from?
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources — including ABS, Geoscience Australia, Valuer General, Provider directories, DEWR, JSA, State Transport Departments and ACARA — then aggregates them to the boundary shown and calculates the rankings, 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.
Is the Nambucca Heads data on this page just from the 2021 Census?
No. Most of this page is maintained well beyond the Census. Sourced entirely from current releases: development & approvals (Jun 2026), property sales & rents (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to May 2026), age profile (to May 2026), employment (to Mar 2026), income (to FY 2023), education (to Aug 2026), transport (to Jul 2026) and health (to 2024). Population and age cohorts in particular are re-based to the latest ABS Estimated Resident Population rather than left at 2021 counts. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.

Nearby Areas