Area profile · Rest of Vic.
Orbost has an estimated 6,794 residents, up 1.0% since the 2021 Census, with 85 projects tracked in the area around Orbost.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Orbost Statistical Area (Lv2), located 264 kilometres south from Canberra CBD, is a rural area in Victoria, Australia, with picturesque surroundings, agricultural landscapes, dairy farming and timber industries. Its heritage buildings and historical sites reflect the region's past, while nearby national parks, rivers and walking trails draw nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The community is described as warm and welcoming. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, the population is around 6,794 as of Aug 2026, with little change since the 2021 Census count of 6,727 people. The latest ERP (Estimated Resident Population) outputs from the ABS and new addresses added since the Census indicate no significant movements.
The area has high outright home ownership, a low average household size, a strong detached house presence and affordable housing options, alongside above-average children per family and a notable 65 to 74yo demographic. Mature and retirement agedandolder australians form a substantial share of residents, many living alone or as couples without children.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Orbost Statistical Area (Lv2), located 264 kilometres south from Canberra CBD, is a rural area in Victoria, Australia, with picturesque surroundings, agricultural landscapes, dairy farming and timber industries. Its heritage buildings and historical sites reflect the region's past, while nearby national parks, rivers and walking trails draw nature enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers. The community is described as warm and welcoming. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, the population is around 6,794 as of Aug 2026, with little change since the 2021 Census count of 6,727 people. The latest ERP (Estimated Resident Population) outputs from the ABS and new addresses added since the Census indicate no significant movements.
The area has high outright home ownership, a low average household size, a strong detached house presence and affordable housing options, alongside above-average children per family and a notable 65 to 74yo demographic. Mature and retirement agedandolder australians form a substantial share of residents, many living alone or as couples without children.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 7,047 in 2001 and 6,727 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 6,794 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 65 to 74, 20.1%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $400 - 799, 31.7%.
Orbost ranks in the 43rd percentile nationally for population growth and the 41st for infrastructure drivers.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Orbost is $325 a week, up 7.3% over 12 months to Sep 2025 and 29% below Regional Vic..
29% below Regional Vic. on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $213 in 2016, $351 in 2025; Units (dashed orange line): $161 in 2016, $255 in 2025. The latest is to Sep 2025.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $325 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +7.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, houses | $351 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +6.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, units | $255 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +5.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Gippsland - East | $451 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Gippsland - East, over 12 months | +7.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Latrobe - Gippsland | $443 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Latrobe - Gippsland, over 12 months | +7.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, Regional Vic. | $458 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, Regional Vic., over 12 months | +5.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, VIC | $560 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent, VIC, over 12 months | +4.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 |
AreaSearch tracks 85 projects in and around Orbost, 26 of them under construction.
The Lakes Entrance Northern Growth Area (LENGA) is a 244 hectare residential growth precinct in the hills north of Lakes Entrance, planned to deliver around 1,545 new dwellings and accommodate over 9,000 future residents.
A 1km road and footpath upgrade project extending from the roundabout at Marine Parade and Princes Highway to Barkes Avenue intersection. The project includes widening the road for 50 on-road parallel parking bays, 1.8m-wide accessible footpaths along the residential side, raised pedestrian crossings for traffic calming, intersection reconstruction at…
Major foreshore revitalisation featuring Krauatungalung Walk Stage 1 with an all-abilities boardwalk, Indigenous garden celebrating the five Gunaikurnai clans, sculptural seating featuring Borun the pelican and Tuk the musk duck, Lakes Foreshore Park with inclusive playground incorporating water-play and nature-play elements, accessible pathways…
Transformation of a 5,400 square metre former slipway site operating from 1948-2005 into a vibrant public waterfront precinct featuring tiered timber decking, two restored historic winch sheds converted into art galleries, food and beverage outlets, outdoor markets, community event spaces, public amenities, and accessible ramps.
East Gippsland Water replaced the critical water main linking Kalimna and Lakes Entrance beneath North Arm using horizontal directional drilling to improve drinking water supply reliability, increase network capacity for future growth and reduce environmental impacts within the Gippsland Lakes Ramsar area.
Completed tourism infrastructure upgrade at Jemmys Point featuring a large circular viewing platform with panoramic 270-degree views of the Gippsland Lakes, Bass Strait and 90 Mile Beach.
Remediation works on the 130-year-old heritage-listed training walls, including stabilization of the timber structure with rock-filled geotextile bags and replenishment of armour rock along the channel sides.
A comprehensive upgrade of the Paynesville maritime precinct involving the replacement of aging seawalls and the construction of new jetties to provide approximately 40 new berths.
Proposal by Resi Ventures for the first stage of the Shearwater development, which involves a 59-lot residential subdivision on 10.702 hectares. The project includes roads, paths, landscaping, a public reserve, drainage, stormwater treatment, and habitat creation for environmental protection.
Redevelopment of the Gippsland Lakes Yacht Club into a multi-purpose community hub. The facility will serve as a home for water sports and community groups, featuring boat storage, meeting rooms, social spaces, a public deck, and a function hall.
Luxury over-50s resort-style community featuring 195 designer homes, a world-class Latitude Country Club with extensive amenities including Milon Gymnasium, pools, cinema, and bowling green in a lakeside setting. The resort is currently under construction, with an estimated completion date of 2027.
Construction of a new 300 megalitre winter storage lagoon and associated transfer infrastructure at the Paynesville Water Recycling Plant. The project expands recycled water storage capacity to improve wet weather wastewater management, protect local waterways and support future growth across Paynesville, Eagle Point, Raymond Island, Newlands Arm and…
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 35 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 3, 2026 7, 2027 7, 2028 6, 2029 2, 2030 6, 2031 0, 2032 1, 2033 2, 2034 1. 34 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 6.1 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 70th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 41 | ABS building approvals | 52nd percentile nationally |
Currently, there are limited major infrastructure and planning changes identified for Orbost in the available data.
Infrastructure projects impacting the Orbost SA2 encompass various sectors supporting community growth and economic development.
While specific investment values are not publicly disclosed for all projects impacting the Orbost SA2, the area shows active development across multiple infrastructure categories within 15km.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Orbost SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 34th percentile.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Orbost compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Orbost SA2 area has seen 54 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Orbost SA2's current population of 6,794 has been supported by 41 approvals on average over recent years.
The Orbost SA2 has seen 6.1 approval per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 7.6 approvals in Regional Vic.. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 267 people in the Orbost SA2, compared to one for every 145 in Regional Vic..
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Orbost SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 41, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the Orbost SA2 has grown by approximately 108 people, while 203 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.5 people added for each new dwelling approval. This low ratio indicates housing supply is outpacing population growth, potentially creating market oversupply.
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 Orbost reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 6,794 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +1.0% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 6th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 6,727 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 67 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 11,383.70 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Orbost SA2 was estimated to be approximately 6,794 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 6,728 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The orbost sa2 has added approximately 67 people and shown a 1.00% increase from the 6,727 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Orbost SA2 is estimated at 0 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Orbost SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.3% per annum.
Population growth in the Orbost SA2 is driven by: Interstate migration (78.7%), Overseas migration (21.3%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 78.7% of overall population gains.
Orbost ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 55 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 96th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 35.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 12.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 15.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 43.5% | 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 | 55 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 9.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 9.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 6.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 9.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 17.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 20.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 11.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Orbost SA2 at 55 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 55 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 55 years as at August 2026, Orbost is 12 years older than the Regional Vic. 2021 Census average (43 years) and 17 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Orbost SA2 compared to the Regional Vic. region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 20.1% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Orbost SA2 compared to the Regional Vic. region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 6.0% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Orbost SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional Vic.. The most over-represented age groups are 65-74 year-olds (20.1% vs 12.8%) and 75-84 year-olds (11.5% vs 8.4%). The most under-represented age groups are 25-34 year-olds (6.0% vs 11.0%) and 0-4 year-olds (3.5% vs 5.5%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 12.5% of the population in the Orbost SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 35.0% of the population in the Orbost SA2 as at August 2026.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 3% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $44,067 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $54,208 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $926 | 2021 Census, weekly | 1st percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $529 | 2021 Census, weekly | 5th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 7.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,280 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 43.1% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Orbost SA2 is approximately $46,975. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $44,067.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Orbost SA2 is approximately $57,786. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $54,208.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Orbost SA2 is approximately $46,975 compared to $57,266 in Regional Vic.. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $44,067 and $53,720 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Orbost SA2 is approximately $57,786 compared to $70,544 in Regional Vic.. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $54,208 and $66,176 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Orbost SA2's households (~31.7% / 880 households) is the $400 - 799 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Orbost SA2 is the $400 - 799 group, representing about 31.7% of households. In comparison, Regional Vic.'s largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 30.3% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Orbost SA2 is $926/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Orbost SA2 is $1,280/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Orbost SA2 is $529/wk.
The Orbost SA2 shows a median taxpayer income of $44,067 and an average of $54,208 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. This is below the national average, contrasting with Regional Vic.'s median income of $53,720 and average income of $66,176. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.6% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $46,975 (median) and $57,786 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Orbost SA2 is $3,614 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The orbost sa2's disposable income is $3,614 compared to $5,209 for Regional Vic., based on AreaSearch analysis.
Orbost shows employment indicators that trail behind approximately 70% of regions assessed across Australia.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 6.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 52.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,849 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 6,388 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 3,037 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Orbost SA2 has approximately 2,849 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 6.2%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Orbost SA2 stands at 6.2%, which is 2.4 percentage points above Regional Vic.'s rate of 3.8%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Orbost SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are agriculture, forestry & fishing (18.2% of employment), health care & social assistance (15.4%), and education & training (10.4%). Other significant employers include accommodation & food and retail trade.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Orbost SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Regional Vic. saw employment increased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the Orbost SA2 is 52.5%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Regional Vic. average of 61.1%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The orbost sa2 shows notable specialisation in agriculture, forestry & fishing, which employs 18.2% of the local workforce compared to 7.5% across Regional Vic.. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 2.4, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area.
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The orbost sa2'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 saw a 1.8% decline, ranking 26th out of 37 regions nationally.
Education in Orbost: university qualifications 18.3%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 969.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 12.2% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 18.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 29.3% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.9% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.2% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 41.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 25.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 10.3% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.7% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
18.3% of people aged 15 and over in the Orbost SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.7% in Regional Vic..
41.2% of people aged 15 and over in the Orbost SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 40.4% in Regional Vic..
The orbost sa2 ranks in the 34th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Orbost SA2 are: Certificate (29.3%), Bachelor Degree (12.2%), Advanced Diploma (11.2%).
25.9% of the population in the Orbost SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 10.3% in primary school, 7.7% in secondary school, 2.3% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Orbost SA2 is 969, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 13 schools within the Orbost SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 649 students.
The orbost sa2 includes 6 primary schools, 3 secondary schools, 4 combined schools.
Orbost features high concentrations of lone person households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Vic.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.1 people | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 37.3% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 17.8% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 33.1% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 8.4% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,777 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 2,805 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 60.1% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 2.0 per family | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Orbost SA2 had 2,777 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 1.0% to an estimated 2,805 households today.
The average household size in the Orbost SA2 is 2.1 people. This compares to 2.4 in Regional Vic. and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 60.1% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (37.3%), group households (2.7%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,669 family households, couples with children account for 17.8% of all households, couples without children at home 33.1%, and single parent families 8.4%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Vic., the Orbost SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 37.3% (versus 29.3% in Regional Vic.). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 60.1% compared to 67.8% in Regional Vic.. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Orbost SA2 have an average of 2.0 children, slightly above the Regional Vic. average of 1.8. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 45.3% of the adult population are currently married, while 30.9% have never married. This compares to 46.3% married and 34.0% never married across Regional Vic..
Single-person households represent 37.3% of all households in the Orbost SA2, higher than the average for Regional Vic. of 29.3%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.7% of households, slightly below the Regional Vic. average of 2.9%.
Orbost is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 11.7% | 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 3.4% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 96.6% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 86.6% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 88.3% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 3.7% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
Orbost was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 86.6% of its population being citizens, 88.3% born in Australia, and 96.6% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Orbost, at 39.4% of people, although more residents (58.7%) reported no religion. Christianity accounts for 47.3% across Regional Vic..
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Orbost are English, comprising 33.0% of the population, Australian, comprising 28.7% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 9.8% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Dutch is notably overrepresented at 2.0% of Orbost (vs 1.7% across Regional Vic.), Australian Aboriginal at 3.7% (vs 1.4%) and Irish at 9.0% (vs 9.7%).
11.7% of the Orbost SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.2% across Regional Vic..
3.4% of the population in the Orbost SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.6% in Regional Vic..
3.7% of the Orbost SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Regional Vic..
86.6% of the Orbost SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 88.6% in Regional Vic..
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Orbost is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 18.5% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 58.9% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 95.6% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,083 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 10th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 22.7% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 2.5% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $190 | 2021 Census, weekly | 4th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 20.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 48th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 27.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 74th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the Orbost SA2, 58.9% of homes are owned outright, 22.7% are owned with a mortgage, and 18.5% are rented.
According to the latest data, 95.6% of dwellings in the Orbost SA2 are houses.
In the Orbost SA2, 0.7% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 2.5% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Orbost SA2 stands at 58.9%, compared to 40.9% in Regional Vic..
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Orbost SA2 is $1,083, compared to $1,430 in Regional Vic..
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Orbost SA2 is $398, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Orbost SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 27.0% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.5% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Orbost SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Orbost SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 27.0% of income on repayments (vs 23.8% in Regional Vic.), while renters spend 20.5% of income on rent (vs 20.6% in Regional Vic.).
The dwelling mix in the Orbost SA2 consists of 95.6% detached houses, 2.5% semi-detached dwellings, 0.7% apartments, and 1.2% other dwelling types.
Housing in Orbost consumes approximately 9.9% of median household income ($4,010 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Orbost show attached dwellings contributing 7% of approvals compared to 4% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 93% of applications versus 96% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health performance in Orbost is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 46.4% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 4th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 59.6% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 7.7% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 70.5% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.9% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
Around 46.4% of people in the Orbost SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 50.8% in Regional Vic..
In the Orbost SA2, 7.7% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.9% of people in Regional Vic. require similar assistance.
7.7% of people in the Orbost SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.7% of the population across Regional Vic. is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.8% of the Orbost SA2 population, while in Regional Vic., 4.6% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.7% of people in the Orbost SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional Vic.,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Orbost SA2, 46.4% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Regional Vic. sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 50.8%.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 27 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 27th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 22 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 77 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 8th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 306 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 4 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.5 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 19.5% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 22 public transport stops within the Orbost SA2.
The Orbost SA2 has 77 weekly trips across 4 routes, averaging 11 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 1537 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 4.8 km away and the nearest child care centre 8.6 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 22 stops nearby, 77 weekly trips, access rating 27 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 9 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 9th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 4.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 8.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 10.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 11.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 12.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 21.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 23.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 26.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 54.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 79.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 93.8 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).
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Orbost is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Orbost.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Orbost compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Orbost has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 34th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Orbost is $325 a week, +7.3% over 12 months to Sep 2025.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Orbost reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Orbost ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 3% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
Orbost shows employment indicators that trail behind approximately 70% of regions assessed across Australia.
Education in Orbost: university qualifications 18.3%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 969.
Orbost features high concentrations of lone person households and couples without children but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Vic.
Orbost is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
Orbost is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Orbost is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is low compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Orbost has an estimated 6,794 residents, up 1.0% since the 2021 Census, with 85 projects tracked in the area around Orbost.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Sources: ABS Census 2021, ABS estimated resident population, ATO taxation statistics, state rental bonds and property sales records where published, and AreaSearch analysis for Orbost.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2025, population and age estimated to Aug 2026 and taxable income FY 2024. Housing 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 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may 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 (205021085). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, infrastructure projects, employment, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Orbost 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 Orbost 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.
