Wollongong

Suburb (SAL)

Rest of NSW / Wollongong

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Aug 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats SAL14376 How we calculate this
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Suburb (SAL) Boundary Analysis

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

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

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

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Sales ActivityProperty Sales Trends in Wollongong

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The median house price in Wollongong is $1.28m, with units at $754k. House values have moved -0.3% a year compounded over five years.

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Wollongong

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Wollongong has an estimated 23,221 residents, up from 20,446 at the 2021 Census — a change of 2,775 people, or 13.6%. Growth has averaged 2.6% a year over five years, faster than 82% of areas nationally. 841 new addresses have been validated here since Census night. Overseas migration accounts for 93.0% of that increase. That puts 4,031 residents on each square kilometre. Population is estimated from ABS Estimated Resident Population releases and GNAF address data, re-based from the 2021 Census and updated annually.

Detail

Based on demographic evaluations from the ABS for the wider region, alongside verified addresses from AreaSearch since the Census, the suburb of Wollongong has an estimated population of 23,221 as of May 2026. This represents a growth of 2,775 residents (13.6%) compared to the 2021 Census, which counted 20,446 individuals. This adjustment is derived from a resident headcount of 23,210, calculated by AreaSearch using the June 2025 ERP release from the ABS, plus 841 validated new addresses since the Census. This population scale translates to a density of 4,031 persons per square kilometer, placing the locality within the highest 10% of national areas analyzed by AreaSearch, highlighting local land as a highly coveted asset.

The 13.6% growth rate in the suburb of Wollongong since the 2021 census outpaced the SA3 region (4.7%) and the Rest of NSW, positioning it as a key growth area. Recent population expansion was chiefly fueled by overseas arrivals, who accounted for approximately 93.0% of the overall demographic increase. AreaSearch incorporates projections from the ABS and Geoscience Australia for individual SA2 zones, published in 2024 with 2022 as the anchor year. For locations lacking this coverage, NSW State Government SA2 projections from 2022 using 2021 as the baseline are employed. Age-specific growth velocities from these datasets are applied to all locations for the years 2032 to 2041. Future demographic forecasts point to exceptional expansion, ranking in the top 10 percent of regional zones nationwide, with the population projected to grow by 13,559 persons by 2041 using aggregated SA2 projections, which represents a total increase of 58.3% over the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the suburb of Wollongong?
Total population for the suburb of Wollongong was estimated to be approximately 23,221 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 23,210 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the suburb of Wollongong changed since 2021?
The suburb of wollongong has added approximately 2,775 people and shown a 13.57% increase from the 20,446 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the suburb of Wollongong?
The population density in the suburb of Wollongong is estimated at 4,031 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the suburb of Wollongong?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Wollongong has shown a compound annual growth rate of 2.3% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the suburb of Wollongong?
Population growth in the suburb of Wollongong is driven by: Overseas migration (93.0%), Natural increase (7.000000000000001%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 93.0% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Wollongong

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1,685 new dwellings have been approved in Wollongong over the past five years, an average of 337 a year. That places the area in the 92nd percentile for residential development activity nationally, about 15 approvals per 1,000 residents a year. Of the 347 dwellings approved in the latest reporting year, 3% were detached houses and the rest townhouses or apartments. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 501, running ahead of that longer-run average. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this Suburb (SAL) boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

Analysis by AreaSearch of ABS building approvals allocated from localized datasets reveals that the suburb of Wollongong recorded an average of roughly 337 annual new dwelling approvals, totaling 1,685 permitted homes over the prior 5 financial years (between FY-21 and FY-25) and 460 during the current FY-26. Given that 1.6 people relocated to the area for every finished home over the prior 5 financial years (between FY-21 and FY-25), demand matches supply, supporting balanced market conditions. New residences carry an average construction value of $406,000, which is moderately higher than the regional benchmark and reflects a focus on premium builds.

Furthermore, commercial building approvals have reached $130.7 million in the current financial year, demonstrating healthy local corporate investment. Relative to the Rest of NSW, the suburb of Wollongong experiences 171.0% higher construction volume per capita, expanding options for prospective buyers. This rate significantly outstrips the national average, indicating strong developer interest in the region. Recent residential building activity comprises 3.0% standalone houses and 97.0% multi-unit dwellings. The focus on compact designs offers entry-level options and draws interest from downsizers, investors, and first-time buyers. Having approximately 57 people per approval, the suburb of Wollongong exhibits characteristics of an expanding district. Projections indicate the suburb of Wollongong will welcome an additional 13,548 residents by 2041 based on the most recent AreaSearch quarterly calculations. If building rates remain at their current levels, housing supply could fall behind population growth, potentially heightening competition among buyers and supporting price growth.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the suburb of Wollongong recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the suburb of Wollongong area has seen 810 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Wollongong's current population of 23,221 has been supported by 337 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the suburb of Wollongong's development activity compare to the broader region?
The suburb of Wollongong has seen 1.57 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.58 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 56 people in the suburb of Wollongong, compared to one for every 192 in the broader region.
Is the suburb of Wollongong keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 13,548 people by 2041, around 6,774 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels appear broadly sufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the suburb of Wollongong?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Wollongong's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 337, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the suburb of Wollongong?
The population in the suburb of Wollongong is expected to grow by 13,548 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 6,774 new dwellings. This calculation is based on the current census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling in the area.
How does recent development compare to population growth in the suburb of Wollongong?
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Wollongong has grown by approximately 8,665 people, while 1,685 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 5.1 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the suburb of Wollongong?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 337 approvals per year and a population of 23,221, the market appears to be reasonably balanced between supply and demand, presenting moderate opportunities for well-positioned developments. With the population expected to increase by 13,548 people by 2041, around 6,774 new dwellings will be necessary. Current approval trends may be insufficient to meet forecast demand, indicating strong development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Wollongong

Development applications around Wollongong

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

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Wollongong

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AreaSearch tracks 30 current infrastructure and development projects inside Wollongong, worth an estimated $45.8 billion. A further 24 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $48.4 billion. 13 are already under construction and 36 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, communities and transport & logistics. Records are compiled from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, council planning portals and public announcements, reviewed and updated daily, then ranked by proximity, construction stage, completion horizon and project scale.

Detail

Changes to local infrastructure, large-scale projects, and planning frameworks are key drivers of regional performance. AreaSearch has tracked a total of 37 projects expected to influence the local area. Principal developments include the Wollongong to Coniston Rail Infrastructure Upgrade, The Globe Wollongong, the Illawarra Renewable Energy Zone, and the Atchison & Kenny development, with key relevant projects detailed in the list below.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Wollongong?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Wollongong include: Wollongong to Coniston Rail Infrastructure Upgrade (Construction); The Globe Wollongong (Construction); Illawarra Renewable Energy Zone (Planning); Atchison & Kenny (Construction); and Avani Wollongong Hotel and Aspen Mixed-Use Development (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the suburb of Wollongong?
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Wollongong spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Transport & Logistics, and Tourism, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the suburb of Wollongong?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates substantial capital deployment exceeding $44.6 billion in projects that will impact the extended area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the suburb of Wollongong vicinity.
How does the suburb of Wollongong's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
The suburb of Wollongong ranks in the top 10% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
Wollongong to Coniston Rail Infrastructure Upgrade
Category: Transport & Logistics
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

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.

Transport & Logistics

Avani Wollongong Hotel and Aspen Mixed-Use Development
Category: Tourism
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

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.

Tourism

Illawarra Renewable Energy Zone
Category: Energy
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2030
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

NSW's first urban Renewable Energy Zone is in early planning, with EnergyCo coordinating development of a declared REZ intended to provide 1 GW of network capacity. Current work focuses on community and industry engagement, network planning with Endeavour Energy, use of existing energy, port and transport infrastructure, and integration of rooftop solar, batteries, community-scale batteries and future low-carbon industries such as green hydrogen and green steel.

Energy

Wollongong Private Hospital Expansion
Category: Health
Stage: Under Assessment | Est. Comp: 2029
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

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.

Health

The Globe Wollongong
Category: Tourism
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2029
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The Globe is a $230 million mixed-use precinct redeveloping the former David Jones site and City Diggers Club in Wollongong CBD. Construction commenced in mid-2025 across three staged phases: a 6-storey rebuilt City Diggers Club with revised 88-room motel (operated by Wollongong Golf Club), an 8-storey A-grade commercial office tower with over 8,300 sqm of floor space, and a 15-storey 5-star hotel with 236 rooms including a rooftop Sky Bar and pool. The precinct features 567 basement car spaces (130 fast-charging), new public laneways connecting Crown Street Mall to MacCabe Park, and retail and hospitality at street level.Phases 1 and 2 (club and office) are targeted for mid-2028 completion, with the hotel following as the final phase. A planning proposal to increase approved building heights is progressing through Wollongong City Council.

Tourism

Wollongong Health Precinct Strategy
Category: Health & Medical
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2050
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

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.

Health & Medical

Keira Place (Smith Street Development)
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A significant mixed-use precinct known as Keira Place, featuring four buildings ranging from 8 to 10 storeys. The development delivers 150 high-quality apartments, including a dedicated 15% to 17% component of in-fill affordable housing and specialized NDIS units. The site includes ground-floor retail and commercial tenancies, three levels of basement parking, and extensive communal open spaces with rooftop facilities, located on the historic former Wollongong gasworks site.

Residential Development

Flinders Street Apartments
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   

A mixed-use shop-top housing development by Level 33. Originally approved for 201 units following a 2023 Land and Environment Court ruling, the project underwent a significant modification in early 2026 to add 2-3 additional levels. The revised plan delivers approximately 249 apartments across two buildings, featuring ground-floor commercial tenancies, communal green spaces, and 230 basement parking spots.

Residential Development

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Wollongong

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13,341 residents of Wollongong are employed, from a labour force of 14,297. Unemployment sits at 6.7%, with participation at 66.6%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 7.0% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. The working-day population is estimated at 28,084, about 121% of the resident population, so the area draws in more workers than it sends out. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

The suburb of Wollongong features a highly skilled labor force with strong representation in critical services, an unemployment rate of 6.7%, and a 3.3% rise in estimated jobs over the prior year, based on AreaSearch statistical aggregations. By March 2026, working residents numbered 13,341, though the unemployment rate was 2.6% higher than the Regional NSW benchmark of 4.1%, and labor participation stood well above average (66.6% compared to 60.6% in Regional NSW). Census responses indicated that a substantial 33.9% of the workforce operated from home, though this may have been influenced by pandemic-related restrictions.

Resident employment is largely centered around healthcare & social assistance, education & training, and retail trade. The workforce shows a notable concentration in professional & technical services, with a share that is 1.8 times the regional benchmark. Conversely, agriculture, forestry & fishing is minimal, employing 0.2% of workers compared to 5.3% regionally. Reflecting a ratio of 1.0 workers for every local resident at the Census, the area operates as a regional job center, containing more positions than working residents and drawing commuters from neighboring districts. According to AreaSearch evaluations of SALM and ABS statistics across wider regions, the 12 months leading to March 2026 saw employment grow by 3.3% and the labor force expand by 3.3%, which held the unemployment rate steady. In contrast, Regional NSW experienced a 0.9% drop in employment, a 0.4% contraction in the labor force, and a 0.5 percentage point increase in unemployment. National employment projections from Jobs and Skills Australia released in May-25 provide context for prospective demand in the suburb of Wollongong. These five and ten-year forecasts have been aligned with local workforce data to project future trends. While countrywide employment is expected to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, trends vary widely across different sectors. Applying these industry projections to the local work profile suggests employment in the suburb of Wollongong should grow by 7.0% over five years and 14.5% over ten years, noting this is a basic weighted projection for visualization and does not integrate localized population forecasts.

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the suburb of Wollongong?
As of March 2026, the suburb of Wollongong has approximately 13,341 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 6.7%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
How does the suburb of Wollongong's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Wollongong stands at 6.7%, which is 2.6 percentage points above Regional NSW's rate of 4.1%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
What are the major employment sectors in the suburb of Wollongong?
The employment landscape in the suburb of Wollongong is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (19.7% of employment), education & training (11.6%), and retail trade (10.0%). Other significant employers include accommodation & food and professional & technical.
How has employment changed recently in the suburb of Wollongong?
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Wollongong has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fall. By comparison, Regional NSW saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
What is the workforce participation rate in the suburb of Wollongong?
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Wollongong is 66.6%, 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.
Which industries are over-represented in the suburb of Wollongong's employment market?
The suburb of wollongong shows notable specialization in professional & technical, which employs 9.3% 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 3 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
What are the employment growth prospects for the suburb of Wollongong?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the suburb of Wollongong's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 7.0% over the next five years and 14.5% over ten years. This exceeds the national forecast of 6.6% over five years, suggesting the area's industry composition is well-positioned for future growth. Steady growth is anticipated across multiple sectors, providing diverse employment opportunities.
How does the job market in the suburb of Wollongong compare nationally?
The suburb of 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 9.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the suburb of Wollongong?
Skilled workers will find excellent opportunities in the suburb of Wollongong, with knowledge-intensive sectors comprising 46.0% of local employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include health care & social assistance (19.7%), education & training (11.6%), and professional & technical (9.3%). With projected employment growth of 7.0% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Wollongong

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Median household income in Wollongong is $1,549 a week (about $81,000 a year), with median personal income at $836 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $50,083 a year against an average of $68,445. Household income is from the 2021 Census; taxable income is from ATO Taxation Statistics for the latest financial year available, indexed forward using the ABS Wage Price Index.

Detail

According to the most recent postcode ATO data released by AreaSearch for the 2023 financial year, taxpayers in the suburb of Wollongong earn a median income of $50,083 and an average income of $68,445. These figures align closely with national benchmarks, compared to a median of $52,390 and an average of $65,215 across Regional NSW. Adjusting for a 10.32% increase in the Wage Price Index since the 2023 financial year, current figures are estimated at approximately $55,252 for the median and $75,509 for the average as of March 2026. The 2021 Census reveals personal earnings sit at the 56th percentile ($836 per week), while household earnings rank at the 38th percentile.

Income segmentation shows that 33.4% of the population (7,755 individuals) fall within the $1,500 - 2,999 weekly bracket, mirroring regional trends where 29.9% are in the same band. Household budget stress is pronounced, with only 79.7% of income remaining after housing costs, placing the area in the 34th percentile, while the SEIFA index for income places the locality in the 6th decile.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the suburb of Wollongong?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Wollongong is approximately $55,252. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $50,083.
What is the average taxable income in the suburb of Wollongong?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Wollongong is approximately $75,509. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $68,445.
How does the median taxable income in the suburb of Wollongong compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Wollongong is approximately $55,252 compared to $57,797 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $50,083 and $52,390 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the suburb of Wollongong compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Wollongong is approximately $75,509 compared to $71,945 in Regional NSW. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $68,445 and $65,215 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the suburb of Wollongong according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~33.4% / 7,755 persons) of the suburb of Wollongong's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the suburb of Wollongong compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the suburb of Wollongong is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 33.4% of the population. In comparison, Regional NSW's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 29.9% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the suburb of Wollongong according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Wollongong is $1,549/wk.
What is the median family income in the suburb of Wollongong according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Wollongong is $2,034/wk.
What is the median personal income in the suburb of Wollongong according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Wollongong is $836/wk.
How does the suburb of Wollongong's income rank nationally?
The suburb of Wollongong shows a median taxpayer income of $50,083 and an average of $68,445 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-23. This is approximately average nationally, contrasting with Regional NSW's median income of $52,390 and average income of $65,215. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $55,252 (median) and $75,509 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the suburb of Wollongong?
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Wollongong is $5,350 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the suburb of Wollongong's disposable income compare to the region?
The suburb of wollongong's disposable income is $5,350 compared to $5,252 for Regional NSW, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Wollongong

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Wollongong had 9,526 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 14% detached houses and 78% apartments. 18% are owned with a mortgage, 57% rented and 25% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $410 a week and the median mortgage repayment $1,950 a month. Rent absorbs 26.5% of household income here and mortgage repayments 29.1%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

At the most recent Census, the distribution of housing types in the suburb of Wollongong was 13.9% standalone houses and 86.1% alternative dwellings such as townhouses and apartments, compared to 82.6% houses and 17.4% alternative dwellings in Regional NSW. Home ownership rates in the suburb of Wollongong lagged the regional average, standing at 25.1%, with the remaining properties occupied by residents with a mortgage (18.4%) or tenants (56.5%). Median monthly mortgage costs in the locality were notably higher than the Regional NSW average of $1,733, coming in at $1,950, while median weekly rent was recorded at $410 compared to $330 regionally.

On a national level, mortgage costs exceed the Australian median of $1,863, and rents are higher than the countrywide figure of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the suburb of Wollongong?
In the suburb of Wollongong, 25.1% of homes are owned outright, 18.4% are owned with a mortgage, and 56.5% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Wollongong are houses?
According to the latest data, 13.9% of dwellings in the suburb of Wollongong are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Wollongong are apartments or units?
In the suburb of Wollongong, 77.6% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 7.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the suburb of Wollongong?
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Wollongong stands at 25.1%, compared to 39.6% in Regional NSW.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Wollongong?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Wollongong is $1,950, compared to $1,733 in Regional NSW.
What is the median weekly rent in the suburb of Wollongong?
The median weekly rent in the suburb of Wollongong is $410, compared to $330 in Regional NSW.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the suburb of Wollongong?
In the suburb of Wollongong, 7.6% of rentals are $0-149/week, 21.5% are $150-349/week, 64.5% are $350-649/week, 5.7% are $650-949/week, and 0.6% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the suburb of Wollongong?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Wollongong is $1,362, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the suburb of Wollongong?
In the suburb of Wollongong, households with mortgages typically spend 29.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 26.5% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the suburb of Wollongong?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Wollongong is 0.9, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the suburb of Wollongong compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the suburb of Wollongong shows mortgage holders spending 29.1% of income on repayments (vs 27.9% regionally), while renters spend 26.5% of income on rent (vs 23.0% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the suburb of Wollongong?
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Wollongong consists of 13.9% detached houses, 7.4% semi-detached dwellings, 77.6% apartments, and 1.1% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the suburb of Wollongong?
Considering the housing occupancy patterns, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $1,362. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $1,950/month, and renters paying $1,775/month.
How affordable is housing in the suburb of Wollongong relative to local incomes?
Housing in Wollongong consumes approximately 20.3% 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.
How do proposed developments compare to existing housing types in the suburb of Wollongong?
Recent development applications in Wollongong show attached dwellings contributing 97% of approvals compared to 86% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 3% of applications versus 14% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Wollongong is experiencing exceptional growth in housing density, ranking in the top 10% nationally.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Wollongong

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Wollongong counted 9,526 households at the 2021 Census, an estimated 10,819 today, averaging 2.0 people each. 13% are couples with children, fewer than in 96% of areas nationally, against 30% couples without children. 37% of households are people living alone, and families average 1.1 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Families make up 50.8% of all households, consisting of couples with children at 12.6%, couples without children at 29.6%, and single parents at 7.2%. Non-family households comprise the remaining 49.2%, with single-person living arrangements at 37.4% and shared households accounting for 11.8% of the total. The median household occupancy of 2.0 residents is below the Regional NSW average of 2.4.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the suburb of Wollongong?
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Wollongong had 9,526 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 13.6% to an estimated 10,819 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the suburb of Wollongong is 2.0 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional NSW and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 50.8% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (37.4%), group households (11.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 4,839 family households, 12.6% are couples with children, 29.6% are couples without children at home, and 7.2% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the suburb of Wollongong compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Regional NSW, the suburb of Wollongong shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 37.4% (versus 27.9% regionally). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 50.8% compared to the regional 68.8%. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
What is the average family size?
Families in the suburb of Wollongong have an average of 1.1 children, slightly below the Regional NSW average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the suburb of Wollongong?
Marriage patterns reveal 33.2% of the adult population are currently married, while 49.2% have never married. This compares to 45.6% married and 34.3% never married across Regional NSW.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 37.4% of all households in the suburb of Wollongong, higher than the regional average of 27.9%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 11.8% of households, well below the Regional NSW average of 3.3%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Wollongong

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40.7% of adults in Wollongong hold a university qualification, including 25.8% with a bachelor degree and 12.2% with postgraduate qualifications. A further 19.2% hold a vocational qualification. 5 schools serve the area, with 2,504 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 1,078 against a national benchmark of 1,000. Qualifications come from the 2021 Census; school enrolments, ICSEA and results come from ACARA's current release.

Detail

Academic achievement in the suburb of Wollongong is substantially higher than regional averages, with 40.7% of residents aged 15 and older holding a university degree, compared to 21.3% in the Rest of NSW and 25.2% in the SA4 region. This educational profile positions the locality well for knowledge-intensive sectors. Bachelor degrees represent the most common credential at 25.8%, followed by postgraduate degrees (12.2%) and graduate diplomas (2.7%). Technical qualifications are also common, with 29.2% of residents aged 15 and older possessing vocational training, including advanced diplomas (10.0%) and certificates (19.2%).

School enrollment is high, with 29.4% of residents actively undertaking formal education. This group includes 14.8% in higher education, 4.1% in primary schooling, and 3.4% enrolled in high schools.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the suburb of Wollongong have university qualifications?
40.7% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Wollongong have university qualifications, compared to 21.3% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the suburb of Wollongong have no formal qualifications?
30.0% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Wollongong have no formal qualifications, compared to 39.1% regionally.
How does the suburb of Wollongong's education level compare to national averages?
The suburb of wollongong ranks in the 74th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the suburb of Wollongong?
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Wollongong are: Bachelor Degree (25.8%), Certificate (19.2%), Postgraduate (12.2%).
What proportion of the suburb of Wollongong's population is currently attending educational institutions?
29.4% of the population in the suburb of Wollongong is currently engaged in formal education, with 4.1% in primary school, 3.4% in secondary school, 14.8% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the suburb of Wollongong?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Wollongong is 1078, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
How many schools are located within the suburb of Wollongong?
There are 5 schools within the suburb of Wollongong, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,504 students.
What types of schools are available in the suburb of Wollongong?
The suburb of wollongong includes 1 primary school, 3 secondary schools, 1 combined school.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Wollongong

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Explore the surrounds Search this catchment for any place type — schools, cafés, supermarkets, transport — and drop your own custom points on the map.
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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Wollongong

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Public transport in Wollongong reaches 117 stops on 85 routes, timetabled for about 6,500 services a week. The typical home sits about 130 m from its nearest stop. Buses carry the largest share of public transport commuters. Households keep an average of 0.8 vehicles. Stop and service counts are built from operators' published GTFS timetables and refresh with each timetable release; vehicle ownership is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Public transit networks include 117 active train and bus stops within the suburb of Wollongong. These access points are serviced by 85 distinct routes, which combine to support 6,497 weekly passenger journeys. Accessibility is highly rated, with residents living an average of 128 meters from their nearest transit stop. The locality is primarily residential, and most workers travel outside the area for employment, with private cars remaining the primary travel mode at 74%, followed by walking at 15%. Average household vehicle ownership stands at 0.8 cars, which is below the regional norm.

A high proportion of residents, 33.9%, worked from home according to the 2021 Census, which may reflect pandemic-related travel patterns. Service frequency averages 928 daily runs across all routes, which translates to roughly 55 weekly services for each transit stop. The linked map highlights the 100 closest transit stops to the central point of the locality.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Wollongong?
There are 117 public transport stops within the suburb of Wollongong.
How frequent are the transport services in Wollongong?
the suburb of Wollongong has 6,497 weekly trips across 85 routes, averaging 928 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Wollongong?
On average, residential properties are 128 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Wollongong

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68.0% of residents in Wollongong report no long-term health condition. 5.6% need daily assistance with core activities, and 54.0% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 5.4 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Medical indicators point to positive trends for residents of the suburb of Wollongong, with AreaSearch evaluations of mortality and illness rates aligning closely with national standards. The prevalence of standard medical issues remains typical across both younger and older cohorts, while the proportion of residents with private health insurance is relatively high at approximately 54% of the population (~12,537 people), compared to 51.9% in Regional NSW. The most prevalent health issues recorded locally were mental health conditions and arthritis, affecting 10.1 and 8.3% of the population respectively, while 68.0% of residents reported having no chronic medical conditions, compared to 63.3% across Regional NSW.

Health profiles for working-age residents are generally typical. Individuals aged 65 and older represent 18.1% of the population (4,203 people), which is lower than the 23.4% level observed across Regional NSW, with national health standings matching the broader public.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the suburb of Wollongong have private health insurance?
Around 54.0% of people in the suburb of Wollongong are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 51.9% in the broader region of Regional NSW.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the suburb of Wollongong?
In the suburb of Wollongong, 5.6% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 6.8% of people in Regional NSW require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the suburb of Wollongong?
6.9% of people in the suburb of Wollongong are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.4% of the population across Regional NSW is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the suburb of Wollongong?
Diabetes affects 3.7% of the the suburb of Wollongong population, while in the surrounding region, 4.7% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the suburb of Wollongong?
3.6% of people in the suburb of Wollongong have heart disease. Across the region of Regional NSW, 4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the suburb of Wollongong compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the suburb of Wollongong, 54.0% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional NSW sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 51.9%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Wollongong

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33.7% of Wollongong residents were born overseas and 28.8% speak a language other than English at home, more culturally diverse than 75% of areas nationally. The largest reported ancestries are English (23.2%) and Australian (19.3%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

The suburb of Wollongong shows greater cultural variety than most regional property markets, with 33.7% of residents born abroad and 28.8% speaking a non-English language at home. Christianity is the primary religion, followed by 45.6% of the population. The most prominent statistical divergence is in Islamic adherence, which accounts for 4.6% of residents, compared to 0.8% across Regional NSW. Looking at ancestral backgrounds, the top three heritages identified in the suburb of Wollongong are English at 23.2% of the population (below the regional average of 30.5%), Australian at 19.3% (below the regional average of 30.0%), and Other at 12.5% (well above the regional average of 4.8%).

Specific ethnic concentrations also show variance: Macedonian ancestry is overrepresented at 2.6% of the population (compared to 0.4% regionally), Serbian at 1.3% (compared to 0.2%), and Spanish at 0.7% (compared to 0.3%).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the suburb of Wollongong?
Wollongong was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 33.7% of its population born overseas and 28.8% speaking a language other than English at home.
What is the most common religion in the suburb of Wollongong?
The main religion in Wollongong was found to be Christianity, which makes up 45.6% of people in Wollongong. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Islam, which comprises 4.6% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Regional NSW.
What are the top countries of origin in the suburb of Wollongong?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Wollongong are English, comprising 23.2% of the population, which is notably lower than the regional average of 30.5%, Australian, comprising 19.3% of the population, which is notably lower than the regional average of 30.0%, and Other, comprising 12.5% 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 2.6% of Wollongong (vs 0.4% regionally), Serbian at 1.3% (vs 0.2%) and Spanish at 0.7% (vs 0.3%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
33.7% of the the suburb of Wollongong population was born overseas, compared to 13.0% regionally.
What percentage of the the suburb of Wollongong population speaks a language other than English at home?
28.8% of the population in the suburb of Wollongong speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.1% in the wider region.
How many people in the suburb of Wollongong identify as Australian Aboriginal?
1.4% of the the suburb of Wollongong population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 4.6% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the suburb of Wollongong?
78.3% of the the suburb of Wollongong population holds citizenship, compared to 89.2% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Wollongong

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The median resident of Wollongong is 34, younger than 76% of areas nationally. That is 1 year younger than at the 2021 Census. 44.1% of residents are aged 15 to 34. Age cohorts are not raw Census counts: the Census split is re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections.

Detail

Having a median age of 34, the suburb of Wollongong is notably younger than Regional NSW at 43 and the Australian average of 38. Compared to Regional NSW, there is a strong concentration of residents aged 25 - 34, who make up 27.6% of the local population, while children aged 5 - 14 are underrepresented at 4.3%. The 25 - 34 cohort size is also well above the national share of 14.6%. Since 2021, younger residents have driven the median age down by 1.3 years to 34. Specifically, the 25 to 34 age bracket rose from 23.9% to 27.6% of the population, and the 35 to 44 cohort grew from 10.9% to 12.0%.

Conversely, the 45 to 54 group decreased from 9.7% to 8.2%, while the 55 to 64 group fell from 11.1% to 9.9%. Projections for 2041 indicate significant demographic shifts, led by the 25 to 34 age bracket, which is expected to expand by 71% (4,558 people), rising from 6,408 to 10,967.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the suburb of Wollongong?
According to the latest data, the median age in the suburb of Wollongong is 34 years.
How does the suburb of Wollongong's median age compare to broader areas?
At 34 years, Wollongong is 9 years younger than the Regional NSW average (43 years) and 4 years younger than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the suburb of Wollongong?
The most over-represented age group in the suburb of Wollongong compared to the Regional NSW region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 27.6% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the suburb of Wollongong?
The most under-represented age group in the suburb of Wollongong compared to the Regional NSW region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 4.3% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Wollongong show significant variance compared to the Regional NSW region. The most over-represented age groups are 25-34 year-olds (27.6% vs 11.4%) and 15-24 year-olds (16.5% vs 11.7%). The most under-represented age group is 5-14 year-olds (4.3% vs 11.9%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the suburb of Wollongong?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the suburb of Wollongong is 8.1%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the suburb of Wollongong?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the suburb of Wollongong is 18.1%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Wollongong

Data currency Refreshed

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

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

The ledger — source, cycle and currency by section

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

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

How the numbers are built

Population

The Census provides the small-area baseline, aggregated from mesh blocks to this boundary. It is then re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release), and new dwellings built since Census night are counted from address data — 841 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (20,446 at the 2021 Census → 23,221 now). Annual growth rates are compound (CAGR), not simple averages.

Age profile

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

Property sales

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

Rents

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

Development & infrastructure

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

Employment & income

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

Education, transport & amenities

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

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

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

Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (SAL14376). QuickStats reports 2021 only — the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.

Common questions about this page

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

Nearby Areas