🔍

Brunswick Heads

NSW 2483 • Rest of NSW

1,905
Population (2021)
$38,064
Median Income
14.29 km²
Area
$440/wk
Median Rent
CoastalBeachsideRuralRetireesAffordable

About Brunswick Heads

Brunswick Heads is a charming coastal village in northern New South Wales, nestled at the mouth of the Brunswick River within the Byron Shire. With a population of around 1,905, it sits approximately 12 kilometres north of Byron Bay and retains a relaxed, unhurried character that draws those seeking an alternative to Byron's busier tourism scene. The village is flanked by the Brunswick River to the south and the Pacific Ocean to the east, giving it a uniquely picturesque setting surrounded by water.

Life in Brunswick Heads revolves around its pristine beaches, calm river swimming spots, and a small but vibrant main street lined with cafes, the beloved Hotel Brunswick, and independent shops. It appeals strongly to artists, surfers, retirees, and young families who value a quieter pace without sacrificing community spirit. The local school, Brunswick Heads Public School, anchors the village, and the weekly farmers market is a social hub. Fishing, kayaking, and beach walks are everyday pursuits here.

Brunswick Heads falls under postcode 2483 and is governed by Byron Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Ballina electorate.

📍 Location

State
New South Wales
Postcode
2483
Urban Area
N/A
LGA / Council
Byron
Federal Electorate
Richmond
State Electorate
Ballina
Type
Rural
Timezone
Sydney (UTC+10)
Coordinates
-28.56°, 153.54°
Statistical Area
Rest of NSW
Area
14.29 km²
Elevation
14m

🚌 Transport & Commute

Nearest Train Stations

Byron Bay (no rail service)
12 km
N/A

Bus Services

  • 640 — Byron Bay 20 min

Commute to Brisbane CBD

Distance
780 km
By Train
No direct rail
By Car (Peak)
2 hr 30 min
By Car (Off-Peak)
2 hr 15 min

🛣️ Nearest regional city is Lismore (~45 min by car). Byron Bay 12 km south.

Walkability Somewhat Walkable

Compact village centre is walkable; beach and river accessible on foot

🛒 Supermarkets Nearby

No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.

🎓 Schools

🔍 Crime Statistics

NSW crime data is provided by the Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR). Use the interactive tool below to explore recorded crime incidents in Brunswick Heads by offence type, year and trend.

📊 View Brunswick Heads Crime Statistics on BOCSAR ↗

Data source: NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research · Search for "Brunswick Heads" under Suburb

🏠 Housing 2021 Census

Median Rent (weekly)
$440
Median Mortgage (monthly)
$2,001
Avg Household Size
2.2 people
Median Age
47 years
Social Housing (% of dwellings)
3.9%

13 state housing + 18 community housing dwellings (ABS 2021 Census)

🎓 Educational Institution Attending 2021 Census

School Sector Breakdown

👥 Demographics

Census 2016
1,737
Census 2021
1,905
▲ 9.7% growth

Population Growth

Gender Distribution (Census 2021)

Income 2016
$27,560
Income 2021
$38,064
▲ 38.1% increase

Income Comparison

📊 Population: ABS Census 2021
💰 Income: ABS Census 2021

🌍 Country of Birth 2021 Census

Born in Australia 1,429
Born Overseas 323

Top Countries of Birth (excl. Australia)

  • 1. England 86
  • 2. New Zealand 43
  • 3. Canada 23
  • 4. United States 21
  • 5. Brazil 12
  • 6. Italy 11
  • 7. France 10
  • 8. South Africa 10
  • 9. China 9
  • 10. Scotland 9

🧬 Ancestry 2021 Census

Top ancestries reported (people may report up to two)

English 838
Australian 639
Irish 341
Scottish 233
German 113
Italian 74
Australian Aboriginal 42
French 34
New Zealander 25
Dutch 24

👨‍👩‍👧 Parents' Birthplace 2021 Census

1,099
Both parents born in Australia
382
Both parents born overseas
278
One parent AU, one overseas

🛐 Religion 2021 Census

No Religion
55.0%
Christianity
31.3%
Buddhism
1.3%
Judaism
0.6%
Islam
0.2%
Sikhism
0.2%
Hinduism
0.2%

📊 Age Distribution 2021 Census

0-4 years
90 (4.7%)
5-14 years
163 (8.6%)
15-19 years
87 (4.6%)
20-24 years
92 (4.8%)
25-34 years
219 (11.5%)
35-44 years
239 (12.5%)
45-54 years
268 (14.1%)
55-64 years
304 (16.0%)
65-74 years
266 (14.0%)
75-84 years
136 (7.1%)
85+ years
46 (2.4%)

Nearby Suburbs

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Brunswick Heads located? +

Brunswick Heads is located in northern New South Wales, within Byron Shire, approximately 12 kilometres north of Byron Bay and 780 kilometres north of Sydney.

Is there a beach at Brunswick Heads? +

Yes, Brunswick Heads has a beautiful ocean beach as well as calm river beaches along the Brunswick River, making it popular for both surf and family swimming.

What is the population of Brunswick Heads? +

According to the 2021 Census, Brunswick Heads has a population of approximately 1,905 residents.

Is Brunswick Heads family friendly? +

Yes, Brunswick Heads is popular with families due to its safe beaches, Brunswick Heads Public School, and a quiet community atmosphere compared to nearby Byron Bay.

How far is Brunswick Heads from Byron Bay? +

Brunswick Heads is approximately 12 kilometres north of Byron Bay, about a 15-minute drive.