Suburb profile · Rest of NSW
North Wollongong has an estimated 2,417 residents, up 5.1% since the 2021 Census, with 53 projects tracked in the area around North Wollongong.
Updated 28 Aug 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Located 67 kilometres south-southwest from Sydney CBD, the suburb of North Wollongong has an Estimated Resident Population (ERP) estimated at around 2,417 as of August 2026 based on AreaSearch analysis of annual SA2-level figures and quarterly national address updates. This reflects an increase of 118 people (5.1%) from the 2,299 people recorded at the 2021 Census.
Demographically, the suburb of North Wollongong features a prominent share of teenagers and young adults living predominantly in lone person households and group households within lower quartile income brackets. While recent population patterns show limited expansion, property sales volumes remain significantly above average relative to population.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 2,089 in 2006 and 2,415 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 2,417 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 30.5%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 32%.
North Wollongong ranks in the 98th percentile nationally for infrastructure drivers and the 98th for amenities.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in North Wollongong is $642 a week, up 6.7% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 11% above Rest of NSW. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.8%.
11% above Rest of NSW on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $499 in 2017, $726 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $390 in 2017, $612 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28 Porter Street, North Wollongong NSW 2500 | $1,397,000 | 18 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 18 Ajax Avenue, North Wollongong NSW 2500 | $910,000 | 11 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 41 Porter Street, North Wollongong NSW 2500 | $1,035,000 | 2 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 8/38 Pleasant Avenue, North Wollongong NSW 2500 | $572,000 | 27 Aug 2026 | Unit |
| 11/2 Pleasant Avenue, North Wollongong NSW 2500 | $1,325,000 | 25 Aug 2026 | Unit |
| 20 Exeter Avenue, North Wollongong NSW 2500 | $1,075,000 | 13 Aug 2026 | Street address |
| 2/49 Bourke Street, North Wollongong NSW 2500 | $910,000 | 17 Jul 2026 | Unit |
| 1/26 Ralph Black Drive, North Wollongong NSW 2500 | $1,520,000 | 1 Jul 2026 | Unit |
| 1/49 Bourke Street, North Wollongong NSW 2500 | $877,000 | 1 Jul 2026 | Unit |
| 20/2 Noel Street, North Wollongong NSW 2500 | $615,000 | 1 Jul 2026 | Unit |
The 10 most recent of the 47 residential sales recorded since 27 Oct 2025 (the latest settled 18 Sep 2026), newest first. The median of these 47, houses and units together, was $900,000 (a different set from the medians above). Source: NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch, to September 2026. Commercial, vacant land and nominal sales are left out. Unit means the address has a unit number; a street address has none.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $642 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +6.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.8% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $1.14m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $793k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $900,000 | Median of the 47 most recent residential sales, settled 27 Oct 2025 to 18 Sep 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $726 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +5.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $612 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +6.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.1% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 4.1% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Wollongong | $678 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Wollongong, over 12 months | +6.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Illawarra | $689 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Illawarra, over 12 months | +6.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Rest of NSW | $580 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Rest of 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 40 tracked applications: 11 approved, 9 under assessment, 20 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around North Wollongong, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 53 projects in and around North Wollongong, 14 of them under construction.
A mixed-use shop-top housing development by Level 33. Originally approved for 201 units following a 2023 Land and Environment Court ruling…
Approved 18-storey mixed-use development at 22-30 Kenny Street, anchored by the planned Avani Wollongong Hotel and residential apartments…
A significant mixed-use precinct known as Keira Place, featuring four buildings ranging from 8 to 10 storeys.
The Wollongong to Coniston Infrastructure Upgrade is part of the NSW Government's More Trains, More Services program.
New purpose-built ambulance station with internal parking for up to five emergency vehicles, a wash bay, administration and office areas…
Joint Australian and NSW Government project to replace the existing at-grade M1 Princes Motorway and Mount Ousley Road intersection with a…
COAST Wollongong is a boutique luxury residential development comprising 12 high-end apartments across nine levels.
The NSW Government invested $21.9 million to upgrade Wollongong Hospital, delivering a new MRI machine and CT scanner housed in a new…
A nine-storey shoptop development in the Wollongong CBD featuring 45 apartments, with nine units designated for affordable housing.
The Globe is a $230 million mixed-use precinct redeveloping the former David Jones site and City Diggers Club in Wollongong CBD.
$58 million, 16-storey mixed-use development by the Catholic Diocese of Wollongong, consolidating diocesan and Catholic Education offices…
300 Crown is an approved and now under construction 8 storey shop top housing project in Wollongong CBD.
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 36 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 7, 2027 15, 2028 5, 2029 3, 2030 2, 2031 1, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 1. 6 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 40 substantial development applications lodged in and around North Wollongong over the past 5 years, 24 in the last 12 months; 9 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 2, 2022 4, 2023 2, 2024 4, 2025 4, 2026 (to Oct) 24.
Key application 30 Bourke Street, North Wollongong Multi-Resi | $9.4m | 13 dwellings | 5 storeys Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 40 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 24 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 5.9 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 69th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 15 | ABS building approvals | 26th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 11 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 9 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of North Wollongong include: Mount Ousley Interchange (Construction); Flinders Street Apartments (Construction); Avani Wollongong Hotel and Aspen Mixed-Use Development (Approved); Wollongong Hospital Redevelopment - Equipment Upgrades (Completed); and Level 33 Gipps Street Development (Under Assessment). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of North Wollongong spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Residential Development, and Health, among others.
The suburb of North Wollongong ranks in the top 10% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
Residential development activity is lower than average in North Wollongong according to AreaSearch's national comparison of local real estate markets.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of North Wollongong area has seen 46 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of North Wollongong's current population of 2,417 has been supported by 15 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of North Wollongong has seen 0.58 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.56 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 76 people in the suburb of North Wollongong, compared to one for every 183 in the broader region.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of North Wollongong's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 15, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of North Wollongong has grown by approximately 326 people, while 76 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 4.3 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
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.
An assessment of population growth drivers in North Wollongong reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 2,417 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +5.1% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 997 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 51st percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | -0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | -1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 2,299 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 118 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 2.42 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of North Wollongong was estimated to be approximately 2,417 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 2,415 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of North Wollongong has added approximately 118 people and shown a 5.13% increase from the 2,299 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of North Wollongong is estimated at 998 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of North Wollongong has shown a compound annual growth rate of -1.3% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of North Wollongong is driven by: Overseas migration (94.0%), Natural increase (6.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 94.0% of overall population gains.
North Wollongong hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 4% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 30 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 4th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 13.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 6.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 52.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 58.5% | 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 | 30 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 2.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 4.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 21.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 30.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 10.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 8.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 8.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 9.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 3.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 0.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of North Wollongong at 30 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 30 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 30 years as at August 2026, North Wollongong is 13 years younger than the Regional NSW 2021 Census average (43 years) and 8 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of North Wollongong compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 30.5% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of North Wollongong compared to the Regional NSW region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 4.1% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of North Wollongong show significant variance compared to the Regional NSW region. The most over-represented age groups are 25-34 year-olds (30.5% vs 11.5%) and 15-24 year-olds (21.5% vs 11.8%). The most under-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (0.6% vs 2.9%) and 5-14 year-olds (4.1% vs 11.9%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 6.9% of the population in the suburb of North Wollongong as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 13.8% of the population in the suburb of North Wollongong as at August 2026.
Income figures position the area below 78% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $43,518 a year | ATO FY-23, annual | 6th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $59,337 a year | ATO FY-23, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,549 | 2021 Census, weekly | 38th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $709 | 2021 Census, weekly | 30th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 18.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,044 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 26.4% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of North Wollongong is approximately $48,009. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $43,518.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of North Wollongong is approximately $65,461. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $59,337.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of North Wollongong is approximately $48,009 compared to $57,797 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $43,518 and $52,390 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of North Wollongong is approximately $65,461 compared to $71,945 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $59,337 and $65,215 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~32.0% / 773 persons) of the suburb of North Wollongong's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest income cohort in the suburb of North Wollongong is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 32.0% 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.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of North Wollongong is $1,549/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of North Wollongong is $2,044/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of North Wollongong is $709/wk.
The suburb of North Wollongong's income level is below the national average according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-23. The suburb of North Wollongong's median income among taxpayers is $43,518 and the average income stands at $59,337, which compares to figures for Regional NSW's of $52,390 and $65,215 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $48,009 (median) and $65,461 (average) as of March 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of North Wollongong is $5,315 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of North Wollongong's disposable income is $5,315 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis reveals North Wollongong recording weaker employment conditions than most comparable areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 8.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 67.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 1,387 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 4,289 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 1,515 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of North Wollongong has approximately 1,387 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 8.5%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of North Wollongong stands at 8.5%, which is 4.4 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 North Wollongong is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (16.6% of employment), education & training (13.0%), and accommodation & food (11.4%). Other significant employers include retail trade and professional & technical.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of North Wollongong has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of North Wollongong is 67.0%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate leading the Regional NSW average of 60.6%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
The suburb of North Wollongong shows notable specialisation in professional & technical, which employs 9.2% of the local workforce compared to 5.1% 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.
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The suburb of North Wollongong'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 1.6% growth, ranking 9th out of 37 regions nationally.
North Wollongong shows below-average educational performance compared to national benchmarks, though pockets of achievement exist.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 24.2% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 12.2% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 38.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 18.0% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.6% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.2% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 34.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 37.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 26.0% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
38.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of North Wollongong have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in the broader region.
34.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of North Wollongong have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% regionally.
The suburb of North Wollongong ranks in the 41th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of North Wollongong are: Bachelor Degree (24.2%), Certificate (18.0%), Postgraduate (12.2%).
37.1% of the population in the suburb of North Wollongong is currently engaged in formal education, with 3.2% in primary school, 2.7% in secondary school, 26.0% at university.
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of North Wollongong is 1003, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 4 schools within the suburb of North Wollongong, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,915 students.
The suburb of North Wollongong includes 1 primary school, 2 secondary schools, 1 combined school.
North Wollongong features high concentrations of group households and lone person households, with a lower-than-average median household size.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.0 people | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 38.0% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 11.6% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 27.5% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 6.6% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 14.4% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 997 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,048 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 47.5% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 0.9 per family | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of North Wollongong had 997 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 5.1% to an estimated 1,048 households today.
The median household size in the suburb of North Wollongong is 2.0 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 47.5% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (38.0%), group households (14.4%), and other household types (0.8%).
Among the 473 family households, 11.6% are couples with children, 27.5% are couples without children at home, and 6.6% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional NSW, the suburb of North Wollongong shows distinct household patterns. Group households are notably over-represented at 14.4% (versus 3.3% regionally). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 47.5% compared to the regional 68.8%. The prevalence of shared households suggests a younger demographic or affordability considerations.
Marriage patterns reveal 27.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 59.4% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
Single-person households represent 38.0% of all households in the suburb of North Wollongong, higher than the regional average of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 14.4% of households, well below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 30.4% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 24.3% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 75.7% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 82.9% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 69.6% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
North Wollongong was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 30.4% of its population born overseas and 24.3% speaking a language other than English at home.
The main religion in North Wollongong was found to be Christianity, which makes up 41.7% of people in North Wollongong. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Islam, which comprises 4.8% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Regional NSW.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in North Wollongong are English, comprising 24.5% of the population, which is notably lower than the regional average of 30.5%, Australian, comprising 21.4% of the population, which is notably lower than the regional average of 30.0%, and Other, comprising 13.1% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 4.8%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Macedonian is notably overrepresented at 1.5% of North Wollongong (vs 0.4% regionally), Spanish at 0.8% (vs 0.3%) and Serbian at 0.7% (vs 0.2%).
30.4% of the suburb of North Wollongong population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% regionally.
24.3% of the population in the suburb of North Wollongong speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in the wider region.
1.8% of the suburb of North Wollongong population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in the region.
82.9% of the suburb of North Wollongong population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in the wider region.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
North Wollongong features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than the broader region.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 67.3% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 20.1% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 75.5% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,950 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 59th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 12.6% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 7.7% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $395 | 2021 Census, weekly | 59th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 25.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 84th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 29.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 86th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.9 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
In the suburb of North Wollongong, 20.1% of homes are owned outright, 12.6% are owned with a mortgage, and 67.3% are rented.
According to the latest data, 16.8% of dwellings in the suburb of North Wollongong are houses.
In the suburb of North Wollongong, 75.5% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 7.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of North Wollongong stands at 20.1%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of North Wollongong is $1,950, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of North Wollongong is $1,397, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of North Wollongong, households with mortgages typically spend 29.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 25.5% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of North Wollongong is 0.9, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of North Wollongong shows mortgage holders spending 29.1% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% regionally), while renters spend 25.5% of income on rent (vs 23.0% regionally).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of North Wollongong consists of 16.8% detached houses, 7.7% semi-detached dwellings, 75.5% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in North Wollongong consumes approximately 20.8% of median household income ($6,707 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in North Wollongong show attached dwellings contributing 100% of approvals compared to 83% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 0% of applications versus 17% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
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.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 50.4% | ATO FY 2023, private health cover | 34th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 70.5% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.0% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 74.9% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.4% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
Around 50.4% of people in the suburb of North Wollongong are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 51.9% in the broader region of Regional NSW.
In the suburb of North Wollongong, 4.0% 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.
7.9% of people in the suburb of North Wollongong are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.5% of the suburb of North Wollongong population, while in the surrounding region, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.6% of people in the suburb of North Wollongong have heart disease. Across the region of Regional NSW, 4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of North Wollongong, 50.4% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional NSW sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 51.9%.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 97 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 97th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 37 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 34th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 4,912 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 76th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 66 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 52 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 0.9 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 31.6% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 37 public transport stops within the suburb of North Wollongong.
The suburb of North Wollongong has 4,912 weekly trips across 52 routes, averaging 701 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 94 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 291 m away and the nearest child care centre 799 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 37 stops nearby (33 bus and 4 train), 4,912 weekly trips, access rating 97 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 98 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 98th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 291 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 493 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 799 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 892 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 945 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 954 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 1.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 1.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 2 long day care centres with 121 places in North Wollongong, about 0.7 children aged 0-4 per place.
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05Reports and tools
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
Residential development activity is lower than average in North Wollongong according to AreaSearch's national comparison of local real estate markets.
North Wollongong has exceptionally high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 2% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
North Wollongong's established property market has recorded 51 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 94% residential and 6% commercial transactions.
An assessment of population growth drivers in North Wollongong reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
North Wollongong hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 4% of areas nationwide.
Income figures position the area below 78% of locations analysed nationally by AreaSearch.
AreaSearch analysis reveals North Wollongong recording weaker employment conditions than most comparable areas nationwide.
North Wollongong shows below-average educational performance compared to national benchmarks, though pockets of achievement exist.
North Wollongong features high concentrations of group households and lone person households, with a lower-than-average median household size.
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 features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than the broader region.
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.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
North Wollongong has an estimated 2,417 residents, up 5.1% since the 2021 Census, with 53 projects tracked in the area around North Wollongong.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-23 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 28 Aug 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 North Wollongong.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Sep 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2023 and projects to Aug 2025. 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 28 Aug 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 (SAL13027). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries (suburb-style geography). SAL represents commonly-known suburb names used in addresses, while Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census and statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2025) and income (FY 2023). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for North Wollongong 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 North Wollongong 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.