Area profile · Rest of Vic.
Paynesville has an estimated 7,221 residents, up 3.5% since the 2021 Census, with 9 projects tracked in Paynesville.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Situated 240 kilometres east from Melbourne CBD, the Paynesville Statistical Area (Lv2) is a scenic coastal locality in Victoria renowned for its tranquil atmosphere, picturesque sandy beaches, clean waters, and inviting open spaces ideal for walking and viewing native wildlife. Famous for boating, fishing, and sailing, the town offers an engaging coastal lifestyle supported by an assortment of local cafes, dining venues, and boutique retail offerings. Demographically, the area is characterised by lower-quartile income levels and a prominent older cohort, featuring an elevated presence of people aged 65 to 74yo, a notable 75 to 84yo presence, and a pronounced proportion 85 and over. These mature demographics are reflected in a low average household size, high levels of outright home ownership primarily consisting of couples without children, and an economic profile anchored by a substantial healthcare employment base.
Alongside its lifestyle appeal, the Paynesville Statistical Area (Lv2) has demonstrated strong expansion patterns.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Situated 240 kilometres east from Melbourne CBD, the Paynesville Statistical Area (Lv2) is a scenic coastal locality in Victoria renowned for its tranquil atmosphere, picturesque sandy beaches, clean waters, and inviting open spaces ideal for walking and viewing native wildlife. Famous for boating, fishing, and sailing, the town offers an engaging coastal lifestyle supported by an assortment of local cafes, dining venues, and boutique retail offerings. Demographically, the area is characterised by lower-quartile income levels and a prominent older cohort, featuring an elevated presence of people aged 65 to 74yo, a notable 75 to 84yo presence, and a pronounced proportion 85 and over. These mature demographics are reflected in a low average household size, high levels of outright home ownership primarily consisting of couples without children, and an economic profile anchored by a substantial healthcare employment base.
Alongside its lifestyle appeal, the Paynesville Statistical Area (Lv2) has demonstrated strong expansion patterns.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 4,638 in 2001 and 7,190 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 7,221 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 65 to 74, 23.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $800 - 1,499, 30.4%.
Paynesville ranks in the 87th percentile nationally for population growth and the 73rd for development activity.
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 Paynesville is $530 a week, up 7.1% over 12 months to Sep 2025 and 16% above Regional Vic..
16% above Regional Vic. on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $347 in 2016, $573 in 2025; Units (dashed orange line): $264 in 2016, $416 in 2025. The latest is to Sep 2025.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $530 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +7.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, houses | $573 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +6.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Sep 2025 | |
| Median rent, units | $416 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 | +5.6% | 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 9 projects in Paynesville (4 under construction) and 81 more in the surrounding area.
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.
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.
A premium masterplanned over-50s land lease community by Lincoln Place delivering 203 architecturally designed two- and three-bedroom single-storey homes on a 10.2-hectare site near Paynesville in Victoria's Gippsland Lakes region. Civil works commenced with a sod-turn ceremony on 15 March 2026, with local contractor Rowe Constructions engaged.
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.
A 16.41-hectare residential land estate on the edge of Paynesville, offering house and land packages with access from Newlands Drive, King Street, and Coast Avenue. The estate has reached its final stage, with construction now finished and land titles available for the remaining lots.
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.
A resort-style, pet-friendly retirement village for independent over-50s in the Gippsland Lakes region, featuring 93 two- and three-bedroom villas and a community hub with a salt-chlorinated indoor pool, gym, lounge, and dining areas. Construction on display villas and the village has commenced, with an expanded plan for up to 130 independent living units.
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…
Construction of a new dual-lane roundabout at the Princes Highway and McEacharn Street intersection to improve safety, traffic flow, and accessibility for all road users in east Bairnsdale.
Construction of a three-storey, 60-room apartment hotel comprising studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom serviced apartments[cite: 1]. Developed in partnership between Dahlsens and BFN Developments, the hotel is designed to boost regional tourism and corporate accommodation capacity in East Gippsland[cite: 1].
A 1,250 square metre state-of-the-art Dan Murphy's liquor store developed by Castlerock Property in the East Gippsland town of Bairnsdale, generating approximately 60 jobs during construction and 20 ongoing full-time, casual, and part-time positions, with a 10-year lease and emphasis on local labour and suppliers.
Amendment C172egip implements the Paynesville Growth Area Structure Plan (PGASP) into the East Gippsland Planning Scheme. It rezones land from Farming Zone to General Residential Zone to accommodate approximately 1,375 new homes and associated community and commercial uses over a 30-year horizon.
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 51 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 3, 2026 13, 2027 7, 2028 10, 2029 1, 2030 9, 2031 0, 2032 4, 2033 2, 2034 1, 2035 1. 14 have no completion year.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABS building approvals | 11.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 87th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 80 | ABS building approvals | 74th percentile nationally |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Paynesville SA2 include: Palm Lake Resort Paynesville (Construction); Lincoln Lifestyle Eagle Point (Construction); Gippsland Lakes Shared Community Hub (Planning); Encore Living Paynesville (Construction); and Paynesville Park Estate (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Paynesville SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, and Sports & Recreation, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Paynesville SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 32nd percentile.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places Paynesville among the top 27% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Paynesville SA2 area has seen 169 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Paynesville SA2's current population of 7,221 has been supported by 80 approvals on average over recent years.
The Paynesville SA2 has seen 11.4 approvals 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 85 people in the Paynesville SA2, compared to one for every 145 in Regional Vic..
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Paynesville SA2's approval levels have been slightly above the yearly average of 80, showing modest growth in recent years.
Over the past five years, the population in the Paynesville SA2 has grown by approximately 394 people, while 398 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.0 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.
Paynesville lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 7,221 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +3.5% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 17 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 19th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 6,977 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 244 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 417.89 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Paynesville SA2 was estimated to be approximately 7,221 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 7,191 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The paynesville sa2 has added approximately 244 people and shown a 3.50% increase from the 6,977 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Paynesville SA2 is estimated at 17 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Paynesville SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.5% per annum.
Population growth in the Paynesville SA2 is driven by: Interstate migration (83.6%), Overseas migration (16.4%), Natural increase (0.0%). The primary driver is Interstate migration, contributing 83.6% of overall population gains.
Paynesville ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 61 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 98th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 44.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 10.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 12.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 37.8% | 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 | 61 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 7.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 6.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 5.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 6.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 9.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 15.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 23.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 17.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 4.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Paynesville SA2 at 61 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 61 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 61 years as at August 2026, Paynesville is 18 years older than the Regional Vic. 2021 Census average (43 years) and 23 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Paynesville SA2 compared to the Regional Vic. region is the 65 - 74 group, making up 23.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Paynesville SA2 compared to the Regional Vic. region is the 35 - 44 group, making up 6.8% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Paynesville SA2 show significant variance compared to Regional Vic.. The most over-represented age groups are 75-84 year-olds (17.1% vs 8.4%) and 65-74 year-olds (23.2% vs 12.8%). The most under-represented age groups are 25-34 year-olds (5.9% vs 11.0%) and 0-4 year-olds (3.0% vs 5.5%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 10.7% of the population in the Paynesville SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 44.7% of the population in the Paynesville SA2 as at August 2026.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 6% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $45,869 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 6th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $57,641 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,071 | 2021 Census, weekly | 5th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $571 | 2021 Census, weekly | 8th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 10.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,314 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 36.1% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Paynesville SA2 is approximately $48,896. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $45,869.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Paynesville SA2 is approximately $61,445. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $57,641.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Paynesville SA2 is approximately $48,896 compared to $57,266 in Regional Vic.. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $45,869 and $53,720 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Paynesville SA2 is approximately $61,445 compared to $70,544 in Regional Vic.. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $57,641 and $66,176 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Paynesville SA2's households (~30.4% / 930 households) is the $800 - 1,499 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Paynesville SA2 is the $800 - 1,499 group, representing about 30.4% 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 Paynesville SA2 is $1,071/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Paynesville SA2 is $1,314/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Paynesville SA2 is $571/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the Paynesville SA2 is below the national average, with the median assessed at $45,869 while the average income stands at $57,641. This contrasts to Regional Vic.'s figures of a median income of $53,720 and an average income of $66,176. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.6% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $48,896 (median) and $61,445 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Paynesville SA2 is $4,118 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The paynesville sa2's disposable income is $4,118 compared to $5,209 for Regional Vic., based on AreaSearch analysis.
Paynesville has seen below average employment performance when compared to national benchmarks.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.8% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 43.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,645 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 6,320 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,749 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Paynesville SA2 has approximately 2,645 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.8%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Paynesville SA2 stands at 3.8%, which is broadly in line with Regional Vic.'s rate of 3.8%. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Paynesville SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (19.3% of employment), retail trade (11.6%), and education & training (10.6%). Other significant employers include construction and manufacturing.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Paynesville 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 Paynesville SA2 is 43.5%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. The relatively low participation rate may indicate limited job opportunities or demographic factors affecting workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Regional Vic. average of 61.1%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The paynesville sa2 shows notable specialisation in health care & social assistance, which employs 19.3% of the local workforce compared to 16.8% across Regional Vic.. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector.
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The paynesville sa2's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 1.8% decline, ranking 26th out of 37 regions nationally.
Education in Paynesville: university qualifications 18.4%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 965.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 11.9% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 18.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 29.3% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.3% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 13.1% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 39.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 18.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 6.6% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 5.0% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
18.4% of people aged 15 and over in the Paynesville SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 21.7% in Regional Vic..
39.2% of people aged 15 and over in the Paynesville SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 40.4% in Regional Vic..
The paynesville sa2 ranks in the 32th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Paynesville SA2 are: Certificate (29.3%), Advanced Diploma (13.1%), Bachelor Degree (11.9%).
18.1% of the population in the Paynesville SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 6.6% in primary school, 5.0% in secondary school, 1.5% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Paynesville SA2 is 965, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 2 schools within the Paynesville SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 265 students.
The paynesville sa2 includes 2 primary schools.
Paynesville features high concentrations of couples without children and lone person households 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 | 29.8% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 15.5% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 44.9% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 6.8% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 3,060 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 3,167 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 68.0% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.9 per family | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Paynesville SA2 had 3,060 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 3.5% to an estimated 3,167 households today.
The average household size in the Paynesville 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 68.0% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (29.8%), group households (2.4%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,081 family households, couples with children account for 15.5% of all households, couples without children at home 44.9%, and single parent families 6.8%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Regional Vic., the Paynesville SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Paynesville SA2 have an average of 1.9 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 54.9% of the adult population are currently married, while 20.3% have never married. This compares to 46.3% married and 34.0% never married across Regional Vic..
Single-person households represent 29.8% of all households in the Paynesville SA2, similar to 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 2.4% of households, slightly below the Regional Vic. average of 2.9%.
Paynesville is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 16.7% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 96.8% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 91.9% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 83.3% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.1% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
Paynesville was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 83.3% of its population born in Australia, 91.9% being citizens, and 96.8% speaking English only at home.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Paynesville, at 47.9% of people, although more residents (50.7%) 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 Paynesville are English, comprising 36.2% of the population, which is substantially higher than Regional Vic.'s 30.7%, Australian, comprising 27.9% of the population, and Scottish, comprising 10.4% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Dutch is notably overrepresented at 2.0% of Paynesville (vs 1.7% across Regional Vic.), French at 0.6% (vs 0.3%) and German at 4.0% (vs 3.5%).
16.7% of the Paynesville SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 13.2% across Regional Vic..
3.2% of the population in the Paynesville SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 7.6% in Regional Vic..
1.1% of the Paynesville SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.4% in Regional Vic..
91.9% of the Paynesville SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 88.6% in Regional Vic..
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Paynesville 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 | 16.1% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 60.3% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 91.7% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,300 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 18th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 23.6% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 6.5% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $310 | 2021 Census, weekly | 29th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 28.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 94th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 28.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 80th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.7 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
In the Paynesville SA2, 60.3% of homes are owned outright, 23.6% are owned with a mortgage, and 16.1% are rented.
According to the latest data, 91.7% of dwellings in the Paynesville SA2 are houses.
In the Paynesville SA2, 0.6% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 6.5% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Paynesville SA2 stands at 60.3%, compared to 40.9% in Regional Vic..
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Paynesville SA2 is $1,300, compared to $1,430 in Regional Vic..
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Paynesville SA2 is $523, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Paynesville SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 28.0% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 28.9% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Paynesville SA2 is 0.7, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Paynesville SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 28.0% of income on repayments (vs 23.8% in Regional Vic.), while renters spend 28.9% of income on rent (vs 20.6% in Regional Vic.).
The dwelling mix in the Paynesville SA2 consists of 91.7% detached houses, 6.5% semi-detached dwellings, 0.6% apartments, and 1.3% other dwelling types.
Housing in Paynesville consumes approximately 11.3% of median household income ($4,637 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Paynesville show attached dwellings contributing 27% of approvals compared to 8% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 73% of applications versus 92% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health performance in Paynesville is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 47.1% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 8th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 53.7% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 8.7% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 67.7% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
Around 47.1% of people in the Paynesville SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 50.8% in Regional Vic..
In the Paynesville SA2, 8.7% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.9% of people in Regional Vic. require similar assistance.
7.6% of people in the Paynesville SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 8.7% of the population across Regional Vic. is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.4% of the Paynesville SA2 population, while in Regional Vic., 4.6% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
6.9% of people in the Paynesville SA2 have heart disease. Across Regional Vic.,4.4% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Paynesville SA2, 47.1% 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 | 26 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 26th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 2 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 69 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 8th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 3,595 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 2 | 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 | 16.4% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 2 public transport stops within the Paynesville SA2.
The Paynesville SA2 has 69 weekly trips across 2 routes, averaging 9 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 1365 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest school is 1.8 km away and the nearest child care centre 1.8 km.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 2 stops nearby, 69 weekly trips, access rating 26 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 35 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 35th percentile nationally |
| Nearest school | 1.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 1.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 2.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 2.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 2.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 2.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 3.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 11.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 12.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 12.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 25.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There is 1 long day care centre with 76 places in Paynesville, about 2.9 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Paynesville 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 Paynesville.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking places Paynesville among the top 27% of areas assessed nationwide.
Paynesville has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 32nd percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Paynesville is $530 a week, +7.1% over 12 months to Sep 2025.
Paynesville lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Paynesville ranks among the oldest 10% of areas nationwide.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 6% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
Paynesville has seen below average employment performance when compared to national benchmarks.
Education in Paynesville: university qualifications 18.4%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 965.
Paynesville features high concentrations of couples without children and lone person households but relatively few couples with children, with a smaller average household size than Regional Vic.
Paynesville is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
Paynesville is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Paynesville is well below the national average with prevalence of common health conditions notable 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.
Paynesville has an estimated 7,221 residents, up 3.5% since the 2021 Census, with 9 projects tracked in Paynesville.
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 Paynesville.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Sep 2025, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Aug 2026. 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 (205021086). 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), infrastructure projects (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, 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 Paynesville 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 Paynesville 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.
