Suburb profile · Rest of NSW
Narooma has an estimated 2,797 residents, up 2.4% since the 2021 Census, with 20 projects tracked in the area around Narooma.
Updated 15 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of Narooma is located 138 kilometres southeast from Canberra CBD. Its population is estimated at around 2,797 as of Aug 2026, based on AreaSearch analysis of aggregated SA2-level ERP counts released yearly and national address file data updated each quarter. This represents minimal change since the 2021 Census, which recorded 2,731 people.
Narooma has high outright home ownership, a low average household size, and a notable retail trade employment base alongside pronounced hospitality employment. Its population includes an elevated 65 to 74yo demographic and a high share of retirement aged and older australians, largely living in lone person households or couples without children. The suburb has a strong semi-detached presence, lower education levels and lower-quartile incomes. Population growth is moderate, while sales activity is exceptionally high relative to the population size.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Narooma is located 138 kilometres southeast from Canberra CBD. Its population is estimated at around 2,797 as of Aug 2026, based on AreaSearch analysis of aggregated SA2-level ERP counts released yearly and national address file data updated each quarter. This represents minimal change since the 2021 Census, which recorded 2,731 people.
Narooma has high outright home ownership, a low average household size, and a notable retail trade employment base alongside pronounced hospitality employment. Its population includes an elevated 65 to 74yo demographic and a high share of retirement aged and older australians, largely living in lone person households or couples without children. The suburb has a strong semi-detached presence, lower education levels and lower-quartile incomes. Population growth is moderate, while sales activity is exceptionally high relative to the population size.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 2,491 in 2006 and 2,785 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 2,797 (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, 23.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $400 - 799, 34.7%.
Narooma ranks in the 90th percentile nationally for sales activity and the 67th for infrastructure drivers.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Narooma is $448 a week, up 3.7% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 23% below Regional NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.5%.
23% below Regional NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses: $302 in 2017, $494 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 34 Shingle Hut Road, Narooma NSW 2546 | $850,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 16 Loader Parade, Narooma NSW 2546 | $540,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 72/11 Payne Street, Narooma NSW 2546 | $540,000 | 29 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 17/11 Payne Street, Narooma NSW 2546 | $565,000 | 18 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 6/14 Forsters Bay Road, Narooma NSW 2546 | $427,000 | 16 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 3/8 Curt Lane, Narooma NSW 2546 | $540,000 | 11 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 3 Lake View Drive, Narooma NSW 2546 | $600,000 | 2 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 7 Gem Crescent, Narooma NSW 2546 | $815,000 | 27 Aug 2026 | Street address |
| 9 Tilba Street, Narooma NSW 2546 | $610,000 | 3 Aug 2026 | Street address |
| 1 Angle Street, Narooma NSW 2546 | $990,000 | 24 Jul 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 40 residential sales recorded since 20 Feb 2026 (the latest settled 1 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 40, houses and units together, was $599,500 (a different set from the medians above). Source: NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch, to October 2026. Commercial, vacant land and nominal sales are left out. Unit means the address has a unit number; a street address has none.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $448 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +3.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.5% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $823k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $428k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $599,500 | Median of the 40 most recent residential sales, settled 20 Feb 2026 to 1 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $494 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +4.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $376 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +5.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.0% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 4.3% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, South Coast | $527 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, South Coast, over 12 months | +4.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Capital Region | $561 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Capital Region, over 12 months | +5.9% | 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 70 tracked applications: 21 approved, 15 under assessment, 34 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Narooma, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 20 projects in and around Narooma, 4 of them under construction.
The Bermagui Water Security Project is investigating infrastructure and operational solutions to address critical water shortage risks in the South Coast region.
Sapphire Cove is a new master-planned residential development in Bermagui, comprising over 24 hectares. It offers 550m2 - 900m2 residential lots and is situated adjacent to the immaculate Bermagui Golf Course. Registration for the development is imminent, and it is setting a benchmark for new residential developments on the NSW Coast.
Riverbend Bermagui is a Balinese-inspired luxury mature-living village by Metacap. It will feature 162 architectural 2- and 3-bedroom homes nestled amidst 29 hectares of coastal beauty, with over 16.5 hectares preserved as natural green space. The development includes resort facilities and is designed for over 60s living.
Enhancing the Princes Highway from Nowra to the Victorian border to improve safety, reduce congestion, and increase freight productivity through upgrades and bypasses; $2.2 billion committed for various projects.
Construction of a four-legged roundabout on the Princes Highway south of Moruya to improve traffic safety, flow, and access to future housing developments, the new Eurobodalla Emergency Services Precinct, and the Moruya TAFE campus. The project includes constructing islands and paths for pedestrians and cyclists.
A new Level 4 regional hospital that will provide more services than the Moruya and Batemans Bay hospitals combined. It will include a new emergency department, an intensive care unit, expanded chemotherapy and renal dialysis services, new surgical and operating theatres, and expanded medical imaging services including an MRI.
This project will deliver infrastructure to support up to 1,000 new homes in Moruya. It includes building roads, drainage, footpaths, and upgrading water and sewer systems to unlock land for housing development.
A proposed bypass of the Moruya town centre to improve traffic flow, safety and resilience on the Princes Highway. A preferred corridor has been identified and the land is being reserved for future construction.
Proposed masterplanned residential and conservation community spanning approximately 235 hectares near Rosedale on the NSW South Coast. Under proposal by Walker Corporation, the development plans provide approximately 741 residential lots alongside dedicated open space, ecological corridors, and native bushland protection.
DA-approved 21-lot residential subdivision on a 52,684 sqm englobo site at Malua Bay on the NSW South Coast. Lots range from 619 sqm to 11,470 sqm, all north-facing, with a leafy coastal setting near Malua Bay Beach and Batemans Bay. Vegetation clearing is complete and the site is ready for civil works. The englobo parcel sold in 2024/25 for $2.7 million.
Upgrade of the Bega Sewage Treatment Plant to increase treatment capacity, improve compliance with NSW EPA licence requirements, enhance energy efficiency, improve sludge handling and wet weather performance, and provide capacity for the next 20 to 30 years.
Repurposing of the former Bega TAFE site on Barrack and East Streets into a 72-lot subdivision, yielding approximately 95 future homes. The project includes a 20-unit Seniors Living development, 4 lots for key worker and affordable housing, and 67 lots for the private market.
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 10 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 2, 2027 3, 2028 2, 2029 0, 2030 1, 2031 0, 2032 1. 7 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 70 substantial development applications lodged in and around Narooma over the past 5 years, 44 in the last 12 months; 15 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 2, 2022 8, 2023 1, 2024 10, 2025 6, 2026 (to Oct) 43.
Key application 92 Campbell Street, Narooma Retail | $6.1m Approved
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 70 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 44 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 1.8 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 21st percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 5 | ABS building approvals | 12th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 21 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 15 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Narooma include: Princes Highway Safety And Capacity: Nowra, Nsw To Victorian Border (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure projects impacting the suburb of Narooma are primarily focused on Transport & Logistics.
While specific investment values are not publicly disclosed for all projects impacting the suburb of Narooma, the area shows active development across multiple infrastructure categories within 15km.
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On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Narooma compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Narooma area has seen 14 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Narooma's current population of 2,797 has been supported by 5 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Narooma has seen 1.8 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 5.7 approvals in Regional NSW. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 396 people in the suburb of Narooma, compared to one for every 183 in Regional NSW.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Narooma's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 5, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Narooma has grown by approximately 72 people, while 24 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 3.0 people added for each new dwelling approval. This indicates solid population growth supported by housing development activity.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
Narooma 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 | 2,797 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +2.4% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Population density | 23 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 20th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.5% | 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 | 2,731 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 66 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 120.68 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Narooma was estimated to be approximately 2,797 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 2,785 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Narooma has added approximately 66 people and shown a 2.42% increase from the 2,731 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Narooma is estimated at 23 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Narooma has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.6% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Narooma is driven by: Interstate migration (76.0%), Overseas migration (24.0%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 76.0% of overall population gains.
Narooma 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 | 39.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 12.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 14.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 40.0% | 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 | 58 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 9.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 8.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 6.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 8.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 14.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 23.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 12.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Narooma at 57 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 58 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 57 years as at August 2026, Narooma 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 Narooma compared to the Regional NSW region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 23.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Narooma compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 6.1% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Narooma show significant variance compared to Regional NSW. The most over-represented age groups are 65-74 year-olds (23.2% vs 12.3%) and 75-84 year-olds (12.7% vs 8.2%). The most under-represented age groups are 25-34 year-olds (6.1% vs 11.5%) and 0-4 year-olds (3.2% vs 5.6%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 12.7% of the population in the suburb of Narooma as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 39.3% of the population in the suburb of Narooma as at August 2026.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 2% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $40,352 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 1st percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $53,629 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $926 | 2021 Census, weekly | 1st percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $551 | 2021 Census, weekly | 6th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 6.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,299 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 43.6% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Narooma is approximately $42,926. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $40,352.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Narooma is approximately $57,051. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $53,629.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Narooma is approximately $42,926 compared to $59,289 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $40,352 and $55,733 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Narooma is approximately $57,051 compared to $73,521 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $53,629 and $69,112 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Narooma's households (~34.8% / 432 households) is the $400 - 799 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Narooma is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 34.8% 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 Narooma is $926/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Narooma is $1,299/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Narooma is $551/wk.
The suburb of Narooma's income level is below the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The suburb of Narooma's median income among taxpayers is $40,352 and the average income stands at $53,629, which compares to figures for Regional NSW's of $55,733 and $69,112 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $42,926 (median) and $57,051 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Narooma is $3,431 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Narooma's disposable income is $3,431 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis reveals Narooma recording weaker employment conditions than most comparable areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 4.8% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 43.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,006 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 2,589 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,057 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Narooma has approximately 1,006 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.8%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Narooma stands at 4.8%, which is 0.7 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 Narooma is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are retail trade (15.0% of employment), health care & social assistance (13.9%), and accommodation & food (13.4%). Other significant employers include construction and education & training.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Narooma has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force decreased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Narooma is 43.1%, 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 Narooma shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 13.4% 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 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The suburb of Narooma's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region experienced 2.2% growth, ranking 17th out of 37 regions nationally.
Narooma 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 | 13.5% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 18.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 30.6% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.4% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 39.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 21.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 1.4% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 7.8% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.5% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
18.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Narooma have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in Regional NSW.
39.1% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Narooma have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% in Regional NSW.
The suburb of Narooma ranks in the 23th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Narooma are: Certificate (30.6%), Bachelor Degree (13.5%), Advanced Diploma (11.4%).
21.5% of the population in the suburb of Narooma is currently engaged in formal education, including 7.8% in primary school, 7.5% in secondary school, 1.4% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Narooma is 947, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 2 schools within the suburb of Narooma, with a combined enrollment of approximately 845 students.
The suburb of Narooma includes 1 primary school, 1 secondary school.
Narooma features high concentrations of lone person households and couples without children 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 | 40.7% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 13.5% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 33.0% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 9.7% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.6% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,243 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,273 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 56.7% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.9 per family | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Narooma had 1,243 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 2.4% to an estimated 1,273 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Narooma is 2.0 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 56.7% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (40.7%), group households (2.6%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 705 family households, couples with children account for 13.5% of all households, couples without children at home 33.0%, and single parent families 9.7%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the suburb of Narooma shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 40.7% (versus 27.9% in Regional NSW). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 56.7% 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 Narooma have an average of 1.9 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 44.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 28.2% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 40.7% of all households in the suburb of Narooma, 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 2.6% of households, below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Narooma 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 | 16.1% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 4.1% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 95.9% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 90.2% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 83.9% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 4.2% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
Narooma was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 83.9% of its population born in Australia, 90.2% being citizens, and 95.9% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Narooma, at 47.8% of people, although more residents (48.7%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 1.6% 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 Narooma are English, comprising 32.4% of the population, Australian, comprising 28.0% of the population, and Irish, comprising 9.9% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Scottish is notably overrepresented at 9.0% of Narooma (vs 8.0% across Regional NSW), Maltese at 0.8% (vs 0.4%) and Australian Aboriginal at 4.2% (vs 4.6%).
16.1% of the suburb of Narooma population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% across Regional NSW.
4.1% of the population in the suburb of Narooma speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in Regional NSW.
4.2% of the suburb of Narooma population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in Regional NSW.
90.2% of the suburb of Narooma population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in Regional NSW.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Narooma displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 25.9% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 55.0% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 68.4% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,517 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 31st percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 19.1% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 16.1% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $260 | 2021 Census, weekly | 16th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 28.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 37.8% | 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 Narooma, 55.0% of homes are owned outright, 19.1% are owned with a mortgage, and 25.9% are rented.
According to the latest data, 68.4% of dwellings in the suburb of Narooma are houses.
In the suburb of Narooma, 8.6% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 16.1% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Narooma stands at 55.0%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Narooma is $1,517, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Narooma is $581, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Narooma, households with mortgages typically spend 37.8% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 28.1% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Narooma is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Narooma shows mortgage holders spending 37.8% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% in Regional NSW), while renters spend 28.1% of income on rent (vs 23.0% in Regional NSW).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Narooma consists of 68.4% detached houses, 16.1% semi-detached dwellings, 8.6% apartments, and 6.8% other dwelling types.
Housing in Narooma consumes approximately 14.5% of median household income ($4,010 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Narooma show attached dwellings contributing 14% of approvals compared to 32% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 86% of applications versus 68% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Narooma's residents are relatively healthy in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 46.3% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 3rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 56.6% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 7.4% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 69.2% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.6% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
Around 46.2% of people in the suburb of Narooma are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Regional NSW.
In the suburb of Narooma, 7.4% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
7.2% of people in the suburb of Narooma are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.6% of the suburb of Narooma population, while in Regional NSW, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.0% of people in the suburb of Narooma have heart disease. Across Regional NSW,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Narooma, 46.2% 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 moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 46 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 46th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 65 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 235 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 16th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 43 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 22 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.1 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 13.0% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 65 public transport stops within the suburb of Narooma.
The suburb of Narooma has 235 weekly trips across 22 routes, averaging 33 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 191 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 1.2 km away and the nearest GP 1.2 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 65 stops nearby, 235 weekly trips, access rating 46 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 30 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 30th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 36.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 55.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 58.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There is 1 long day care centre with 25 places in Narooma, about 4.1 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Narooma is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Narooma.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Narooma compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Narooma has moderate levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 45th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Narooma's affordable property market has recorded 89 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 82% residential, 13% commercial and 4% vacant land transactions.
Narooma has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
Narooma ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 2% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis reveals Narooma recording weaker employment conditions than most comparable areas nationwide.
Narooma faces educational challenges, with performance metrics placing it in the bottom quartile of areas assessed nationally.
Narooma features high concentrations of lone person households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional NSW.
Narooma is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
Narooma displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Narooma's residents are relatively healthy in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Narooma has an estimated 2,797 residents, up 2.4% since the 2021 Census, with 20 projects tracked in the area around Narooma.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 15 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 Narooma.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Oct 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026 and taxable income FY 2024. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 15 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SAL boundaries are defined by Australia Post and the Australian Bureau of Statistics to represent commonly-known suburb names used in postal addresses.
Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census data collection and may combine multiple suburbs or use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (SAL12909). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries (suburb-style geography). SAL represents commonly-known suburb names used in addresses, while Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census and statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, infrastructure projects, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Narooma 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 Narooma 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.
