A Central Coast Snapshot

The Central Coast of New South Wales continues to grow and evolve, yet it remains deeply rooted in the familiar rhythms of community life that locals have long cherished. According to the latest Australian Census, our region is home to over 346,000 residents, making it the third-largest urban area in New South Wales and the tenth-largest in the country. It's a community that's expanding steadily, but not at the expense of the coastal charm and neighbourhood spirit that have always defined the area.

Who We Are: A Region in Our Prime

The median age on the Central Coast is 43—placing the heart of our community right in the Baby Boomer and Generation X range. This is a place where many are well-established in life: building businesses, raising children, or enjoying a well-earned change of pace. These are the locals who form the social and cultural fabric of the region, shaping it with their values, stories, and ongoing contributions.

Cultural Roots and Local Identity

Most Central Coast residents were born in Australia, and the ancestry mix tells a story of enduring heritage: primarily Australian, English, Irish and Scottish. There's also a gentle, growing multicultural layer, with families speaking Italian, Mandarin, Tagalog and more at home. While overwhelmingly English-speaking, the region is becoming more diverse, and that adds richness to our everyday lives.

Beliefs and Values

Religious identity continues to evolve across Australia, and the Central Coast is no exception. Almost 40% of locals now identify as having no religion, while traditional affiliations such as Catholic (21.7%) and Anglican (16.8%) remain part of the landscape. These shifts mirror broader national changes, reflecting a region that values inclusivity, respect, and personal choice.

Households and Living

With over 150,000 dwellings on the Central Coast and an average household size of around 2.46 people, the community is a blend of families, couples and individuals seeking lifestyle and liveability. The housing market remains relatively accessible, with median weekly rents at $400 and average monthly mortgage repayments just over $2,000. For many, it's the perfect balance between affordability and lifestyle.

Income and Work-Life Balance

Incomes on the Coast paint a picture of comfortable, grounded living. Median personal income is $727 per week, while household income averages around $1,507. It's a reflection of a semi-retired and working professional population—people who value their time, their community connections, and the ability to strike a balance between work and lifestyle.

A Region on the Rise

The future looks bright for the Central Coast. Forecasts suggest the population will grow by nearly 18% by 2046, with more than 64,000 new residents expected to call the region home. While new developments are emerging and housing is expanding, there's a strong community will to preserve the identity, beauty, and cohesion of the area. Suburbs like Long Jetty, Terrigal, Ettalong Beach and Woy Woy are seeing smart, thoughtful growth—and locals are actively shaping how that future unfolds.

Community Character and Coast Culture

What makes the Central Coast truly special is its character. From weekend markets to local theatre, live music to ocean swims, the region thrives on community connection. Residents are proud of where they live and invested in where it's heading. Townships remain tight-knit and welcoming, and there's a relaxed, easy confidence in the way life flows here.

Familiar, Grounded, and Growing

For those in the Baby Boomer and Gen X generations, the Central Coast offers something increasingly rare—room to breathe, time to connect, and the comfort of being part of something familiar yet full of possibility. The latest census data confirms what many already know: the Central Coast is more than just a location. It's a way of life. A place where roots run deep, and the future is unfolding with intention.And in every story, song, and conversation, that spirit is felt right here—on the airwaves, in the community, and across the Central Coast.

Data sourced from the 2021 Australian Census, Central Coast Council community profiles and forecasts (.id), and reporting from the Daily Telegraph..