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This analysis uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, which can materially differ from Statistical Areas (SA2) even when sharing the same name.
SAL boundaries are defined by Australia Post and the Australian Bureau of Statistics to represent commonly-known suburb names used in postal addresses.
Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census data collection and may combine multiple suburbs or use different geographic boundaries. For comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.
est. as @ -- *
2021 Census | -- people
Sales Activity
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Population
An assessment of population growth drivers in North Wollongong reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends
As of May 2026, the population of North Wollongong is estimated at around 2,424 people. This reflects an increase of 125 people since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 2,299 people. The change was inferred from AreaSearch's estimation of the resident population at 2,423 following examination of the latest ERP data release by the ABS in June 2025 and an additional 49 validated new addresses since the Census date. This level of population results in a density ratio of 1,001 persons per square kilometer, which is relatively in line with averages seen across locations assessed by AreaSearch. North Wollongong's growth rate of 5.4% since the 2021 census exceeded both the SA3 area at 4.7% and the Rest of NSW, marking it as a growth leader in the region. Population growth for the suburb was primarily driven by overseas migration contributing approximately 94.0% of overall population gains during recent periods.
AreaSearch is adopting ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area released in 2024 with 2022 as the base year, and NSW State Government's SA2 level projections released in 2022 with 2021 as the base year for areas not covered by this data. Growth rates by age group from these aggregations are applied to all areas for years 2032 to 2041. Moving forward, exceptional growth is predicted over the period with the suburb expected to grow by 1,399 persons to 2041 based on aggregated SA2-level projections, reflecting an increase of 57.7% in total over the 16 years.
Frequently Asked Questions - Population
Development
Residential development activity is lower than average in North Wollongong according to AreaSearch's national comparison of local real estate markets
North Wollongong recorded approximately 20 residential properties granted approval per year over the past five financial years, totalling an estimated 104 homes. As of FY-26, 16 approvals have been recorded. The average construction cost value for new homes is $401,000. In comparison to Rest of NSW, North Wollongong records 51.0% more new home approvals per person.
Recent development has been entirely comprised of medium and high-density housing, with around 89 people per dwelling approval, indicating a low density area. The latest AreaSearch quarterly estimate projects North Wollongong's population to grow by 1,398 residents through to 2041. If current development rates continue, housing supply may not keep pace with population growth.
Looking ahead, North Wollongong is expected to grow by 1,398 residents through to 2041 (from the latest AreaSearch quarterly estimate). If current development rates continue, housing supply may not keep pace with population growth, potentially increasing competition among buyers and supporting stronger price growth.
Frequently Asked Questions - Development
Development applications around North Wollongong
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| Lodged | Address | Description | Type | Distance | Status |
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SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.
Infrastructure
North Wollongong has very high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 10% nationally
Changes to local infrastructure significantly impact an area's performance. AreaSearch identified 15 projects likely affecting the region. Notable ones include Mount Ousley Interchange, Flinders Street Apartments, Avani Wollongong Hotel and Aspen Mixed-Use Development, and Wollongong Hospital Redevelopment - Equipment Upgrades. The following list details those most relevant.
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INFRASTRUCTURE SEARCH
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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure
Wollongong Hospital Redevelopment - Equipment Upgrades
The NSW Government invested $21.9 million to upgrade Wollongong Hospital, delivering a new MRI machine and CT scanner housed in a new medical imaging suite within the hospital atrium, closer to the Emergency Department for faster diagnostics. A relocated and expanded Medical Ambulatory Care (MAC) Unit and enlarged Transit Lounge are also now open, improving outpatient flow. Construction of the medical imaging department is now complete. Project manager was Johnstaff, architects were Shersons Architecture (MAC) and Gran Associates (Medical Imaging), with Taylor Construction as builder. A separate $220 million investment for the future expansion of Wollongong Hospital and the Wollongong Health Precinct has been committed by the NSW Government, with early planning and site investigation underway.
Wollongong Health Precinct Strategy
Finalised in February 2026, this 25-year place-based strategy guides the redevelopment of a 50-hectare precinct west of the Wollongong CBD. It aims to unlock up to 1,000 new homes, including affordable housing for key workers, and support approximately 10,000 new jobs by fostering a world-class healthcare, research, and education hub. The plan includes a $220 million expansion of Wollongong Public Hospital, improved pedestrian and cycle links to Wollongong Station, and the creation of new public spaces.
Wollongong Private Hospital Expansion
A 12-storey western wing expansion of Wollongong Private Hospital, comprising a new 24-hour emergency department, radiation oncology (Basement Level 6), expanded operating theatres, ICU support, additional inpatient beds, a medi-hotel for recovering patients, and a new vehicular access from Urunga Parade. The proposal also includes an Indigenous birthing centre and walk-in health centre operated by the Illawarra Aboriginal Medical Service (IAMS) within retained heritage buildings at 366 and 368 Crown Street. Five existing Urunga Parade dwellings will be demolished. The project is a State Significant Development (SSD-84096206) currently on public exhibition through the NSW Planning Portal.
Wollongong to Coniston Rail Infrastructure Upgrade
Part of the Rail Service Improvement Program, this project involves upgrading the rail corridor between Wollongong and Coniston. Works include replacing electrical cables and overhead wiring at the Coniston substation, installing new signalling equipment, and completing civil and structural activities to support the new Mariyung fleet. These upgrades facilitate more frequent services on the South Coast Line, targeting 15-minute peak and 30-minute off-peak intervals between Wollongong and Sydney CBD.
Wollongong Sports and Entertainment Precinct
NSW Government and Venues NSW have released a vision for a world-class Wollongong sports and entertainment precinct on the foreshore. The plans include a new 9500-capacity WIN Arena, upgrades to WIN Stadium including new and reconfigured grandstands, improved player facilities, a beachside complex with cafe, kiosk, toilets and multi-purpose event spaces, upgraded food and beverage areas, accessibility improvements, and modern event technology. The NSW Government has committed $17 million to progress the next stage of planning, with no full delivery funding commitment yet announced.
More Trains More Services Stage Two - Mortdale to Kiama Capital Works
A comprehensive rail infrastructure package delivered to enable the rollout of the Mariyung intercity fleet. Works included major upgrades to the Mortdale Maintenance Centre (including a new bogie exchange system), platform extensions at Kiama and other stations, and the construction of new stabling yards at Waterfall and Kiama. As of April 2026, the project has reached operational completion with the Mariyung fleet officially entering service on the South Coast Line.
Avani Wollongong Hotel and Aspen Mixed-Use Development
Approved 18-storey mixed-use development at 22-30 Kenny Street, anchored by the planned Avani Wollongong Hotel and residential apartments above. The approved scheme includes 107 hotel suites, 105 apartments, ground-floor food, drink and commercial uses, basement parking, communal open space, a gym and pool. The hotel is scheduled to open in 2027. A later proposal to increase hotel rooms and add six levels was lodged, with the NSW Planning Portal showing the SSD alterations application as withdrawn.
Mount Ousley Interchange
Joint Australian and NSW Government project to replace the existing at-grade M1 Princes Motorway and Mount Ousley Road intersection with a safer grade-separated interchange at the gateway to Wollongong. Works include a heavy vehicle bypass lane, separate southbound off-ramps for light and heavy vehicles, two heavy vehicle safety ramps, bridge structures, signalised intersections, a commuter car park, active transport links, University of Wollongong access improvements and noise walls. Major construction is underway by Fulton Hogan. In April 2026 the first heavy vehicle safety ramp opened to traffic and bridge girder installation was progressing, with completion on track for 2028.
Employment
Employment drivers in North Wollongong are experiencing difficulties, placing it among the bottom 20% of areas assessed across Australia
North Wollongong has a highly educated workforce with well-represented essential services sectors. As of December 2025, the unemployment rate is 8.8%. The area's unemployment rate is 4.9% higher than Regional NSW's rate of 3.9%, indicating room for improvement.
Workforce participation in North Wollongong is high at 66.3%, compared to Regional NSW's 60.5%. According to Census responses, a significant 31.6% of residents work from home, though Covid-19 lockdown impacts should be considered. Key industries of employment among residents are health care & social assistance, education & training, and accommodation & food. North Wollongong has a notable concentration in professional & technical services, with employment levels at 1.8 times the regional average.
Conversely, agriculture, forestry & fishing shows lower representation at 0.3% versus the regional average of 5.3%. As of the Census, there are 2.2 workers for every resident, indicating that North Wollongong functions as an employment hub hosting more jobs than residents and attracting workers from surrounding areas. Between December 2024 and December 2025, the labour force decreased by 1.2% while employment decreased by 0.8%, causing unemployment to fall by 0.4 percentage points. In comparison, Regional NSW recorded an employment decline of 1.2%, a labour force decline of 0.8%, with unemployment rising by 0.4 percentage points. Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment forecasts from May-25 suggest that national employment will expand by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years. Applying these projections to North Wollongong's employment mix, local employment is estimated to increase by 6.8% over five years and 14.0% over ten years, though these are simple weighting extrapolations for illustrative purposes and do not account for localised population projections.
Frequently Asked Questions - Employment
Income
Income figures position the area below 75% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch
In financial year 2023, North Wollongong had a median income among taxpayers of $43,518 and an average income of $59,337. These figures are lower than the national averages of $52,390 and $65,215 in Regional NSW respectively. By March 2026, estimated incomes would be approximately $48,009 (median) and $65,461 (average), based on a 10.32% growth since financial year 2023. According to the 2021 Census, household, family, and personal incomes in North Wollongong rank modestly, between the 30th and 38th percentiles. Income distribution shows that 32.0% of the population falls within the $1,500 - $2,999 range, similar to regional levels at 29.9%. Housing affordability pressures are severe, with only 79.2% of income remaining after housing costs, ranking at the 33rd percentile. The area's SEIFA income ranking places it in the 6th decile.
Frequently Asked Questions - Income
Housing
North Wollongong features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than the broader region
North Wollongong's dwellings, as per the latest Census, consisted of 16.8% houses and 83.2% other dwellings (semi-detached, apartments, 'other' dwellings). This contrasts with Regional NSW's dwelling structure of 82.6% houses and 17.4% other dwellings. Home ownership in North Wollongong stood at 20.1%, with mortgaged dwellings at 12.6% and rented ones at 67.3%. The median monthly mortgage repayment was $1,950, higher than Regional NSW's average of $1,733. Median weekly rent in North Wollongong was $395, compared to Regional NSW's $330. Nationally, North Wollongong's mortgage repayments exceeded the Australian average of $1,863, while rents were higher than the national figure of $375.
Frequently Asked Questions - Housing
Household Composition
North Wollongong features high concentrations of group households and lone person households, with a lower-than-average median household size
Family households constitute 47.5% of all households, including 11.6% couples with children, 27.5% couples without children, and 6.6% single parent families. Non-family households comprise the remaining 52.5%, with lone person households at 38.0% and group households comprising 14.4%. The median household size is 2.0 people, smaller than the Regional NSW average of 2.4.
Frequently Asked Questions - Households
Local Schools & Education
North Wollongong shows below-average educational performance compared to national benchmarks, though pockets of achievement exist
North Wollongong has a higher level of educational attainment than broader areas. 38.0% of its residents aged 15 and above have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in the rest of NSW and 25.2% in the SA4 region. The most common qualification is bachelor degrees at 24.2%, followed by postgraduate qualifications at 12.2% and graduate diplomas at 1.6%. Vocational credentials are also prevalent, with 27.2% of residents holding them, including advanced diplomas at 9.2% and certificates at 18.0%.
Educational participation is high in the area, with 37.1% of residents currently enrolled in formal education. This includes 26.0% in tertiary education, 3.2% in primary education, and 2.7% pursuing secondary education.
Frequently Asked Questions - Education
Schools Detail
Nearby Services & Amenities
Transport
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility
North Wollongong has 36 operational public transport stops offering a mix of train and bus services. These stops are served by 54 unique routes, facilitating 4,820 weekly passenger trips in total. Transport accessibility is rated highly with residents on average living 94 meters from the nearest stop. Predominantly residential, most commuters travel outward. Cars remain the primary mode of transport at 80%, followed by trains at 6% and walking at 6%. The average vehicle ownership per dwelling is 0.9, below the regional norm.
According to the 2021 Census, a significant 31.6% of residents work from home, potentially influenced by COVID-19 conditions. Service frequency averages 688 trips daily across all routes, equating to approximately 133 weekly trips per individual stop.
Frequently Asked Questions - Transport
Transport Stops Detail
Health
The level of general health in North Wollongong is notably higher than the national average with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions
North Wollongong exhibits above-average health outcomes, as determined by AreaSearch's assessment of mortality rates and chronic condition prevalence. Both young and old age cohorts show low prevalence of common health conditions.
Private health cover is relatively low, at approximately 50% of the total population (around 1,222 people), compared to the national average of 55.7%. The most prevalent medical conditions are mental health issues and asthma, affecting 12.1 and 7.9% of residents respectively. A significant majority, 70.5%, report being completely free from medical ailments, higher than the Regional NSW average of 63.3%. Health outcomes among working-age populations are broadly typical. The area has 12.4% of residents aged 65 and over (around 300 people), lower than the 23.4% in Regional NSW. Health outcomes among seniors are particularly strong, with national rankings even higher than those of the general population.
Frequently Asked Questions - Health
Cultural Diversity
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in North Wollongong was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics
North Wollongong was found to be more culturally diverse than most local markets, with 30.4% of its population born overseas and 24.3% speaking a language other than English at home. Christianity is the main religion in North Wollongong, comprising 41.7% of people. However, Islam is overrepresented compared to Regional NSW, making up 4.8% versus 0.8%.
The top three ancestry groups are English (24.5%), Australian (21.4%), and Other (13.1%). Notably, Macedonian (1.5%), Spanish (0.8%), and Serbian (0.7%) ethnicities are overrepresented compared to regional averages of 0.4%, 0.3%, and 0.2% respectively.
Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity
Age
North Wollongong hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 10% of areas nationwide
North Wollongong has a median age of 29 years, which is significantly younger than Regional NSW's median age of 43 and the national average of 38. The 25-34 age group makes up 31.1% of North Wollongong's population, compared to Regional NSW's percentage and the national figure of 14.6%. The 5-14 age cohort is less prevalent at 4.2%. Between 2021 and present, the 25-34 age group has increased from 26.6% to 31.1%, while the 15-24 age group has decreased from 25.1% to 22.3%. By 2041, population forecasts indicate that North Wollongong's 25-34 age cohort is projected to rise substantially, increasing by 531 people (70%) from 753 to 1,285.