ABS 2021 Census · Updated 31 March 2026
Shoal Bay is a regional centre in New South Wales, Australia, with a population of approximately 1,815, making it a boutique locality. Located approximately 156 km from the Sydney CBD, Shoal Bay is a regional area in New South Wales. The median household income is $52,364 AUD per year (ABS 2021 Census).
Shoal Bay's income profile suggests a value-oriented market with competitive purchase prices. Distance from major centres is a consideration, though regional markets can offer higher rental yields.
Map shows Shoal Bay, New South Wales, Australia.
Official Australia Post postcode for Shoal Bay. A postcode may cover multiple suburbs.
Australia Post Postcode Finder →Usual resident population at census night. Source: ABS 2021 Census of Population and Housing.
ABS Census Data →Weekly median rent for occupied private dwellings. Source: ABS 2021 Census. Live rental data integration coming soon.
State Rental Authority →Annual median household income (before tax) for all households. Source: ABS 2021 Census.
ABS Census Data →Straight-line distance from the suburb centroid (ABS 2021 SAL geography) to the nearest capital city CBD. Actual driving distance will be longer.
Estimated 1 school within or near this suburb based on ABS 2021 data.
Find schools near Shoal Bay on My School →Estimated 1 park and green spaces near this suburb. Source: ABS 2021 data.
Monthly median mortgage repayment for households currently paying off a mortgage. Source: ABS 2021 Census.
ABS Census Data →Proportion of separate houses vs units, townhouses, and other dwelling types. Source: ABS 2021 Census. Relevant for investors assessing rental demand mix.
ABS Census Data →As a regional centre, Shoal Bay serves a wide catchment area. Regional property can offer higher rental yields than metro equivalents, though investors should assess local employment diversity and infrastructure plans. The median rent of $338/week (ABS 2021) indicates an affordable rental market. Owner-occupiers face a median mortgage repayment of $1,700/month. With only 29% separate houses, Shoal Bay has a significant apartment and unit market — typical of inner-city investment corridors.
Capital growth in Shoal Bay may be constrained — consider alternative strategies.
Shoal Bay can deliver reasonable rental income, though yields are not the primary draw.
The resale market in Shoal Bay may not support quick-turnaround renovation projects.
Run the numbers on a Shoal Bay property
Scenario comparison, cash flow analysis, tax modelling, and PDF export — all in one place.
Create free account →Shoal Bay faces a cautious growth outlook for 2026 — investors should focus on yield rather than short-term gains. The rental pipeline in Shoal Bay is thinner — flexible lease terms could help secure tenants faster. Shoal Bay is not a headline market, but contrarian investors may see long-term potential.
Shoal Bay is a regional area in New South Wales with a population of 1,815. The median rent is $338/week and the median household income is $52,364/year (ABS 2021 Census). As with any property investment, conduct thorough due diligence on current listings, vacancy rates, and local infrastructure plans before committing.
Key demand drivers in Shoal Bay include regional employment hubs, lifestyle, and affordability. 29% of dwellings are separate houses. The area has approximately 1 schools and 1 parks nearby.
According to the ABS 2021 Census, Shoal Bay has a population of approximately 1,815. For historical population trends and intercensal estimates, visit the ABS Census Data Explorer at abs.gov.au.
Shoal Bay is approximately 156 km straight-line distance from the Sydney CBD (calculated from ABS 2021 suburb centroid coordinates). As a regional or remote location, travel to the capital is significant — local amenities and employment are important investment considerations.