Avalon and Palm Beach have shifted from having far more under-20s than seniors to having more residents aged 65 and over.
Australian Bureau of Statistics estimates show the combined Avalon–Palm Beach area had 3,527 residents aged 65 and over in 2024, compared with 3,022 people under 20. That was a gap of 505. In 2001, the balance was very different. The area had 3,478 under-20s and 1,738 seniors, giving the younger group a lead of 1,740.
The figures cover the Avalon–Palm Beach Statistical Area Level 2, or SA2. It combines Avalon Beach, Palm Beach and nearby localities for statistical purposes.
The balance shifted in 2021
Avalon and Palm Beach are known for their beaches, surfing and outdoor lifestyle. The population figures show that the resident age mix has changed, even if the area’s broader identity remains familiar.
The gap narrowed steadily over two decades. Under-20s still outnumbered seniors by 987 in 2011, but that lead fell to 271 in 2019 and 70 in 2020. The balance reversed in 2021, when 3,186 seniors outnumbered 3,142 under-20s by 44. By 2024, the gap had widened to 505.
The area’s total population changed little during that time, rising from 13,047 in 2001 to 13,188 in 2024. However, the age mix changed sharply. Between 2001 and 2024, the number of residents aged 65 and over rose by 1,789. The under-20 population fell by 456.
In 2001, under-20s made up 26.7 per cent of residents, while people aged 65 and over accounted for 13.3 per cent. By 2024, seniors made up 26.7 per cent of the population. Under-20s accounted for 22.9 per cent, while residents aged 20 to 64 made up the rest.
| Year | Under 20 | Aged 65+ | Balance |
| 2001 | 3,478 | 1,738 | 1,740 more under-20s |
| 2011 | 3,323 | 2,336 | 987 more under-20s |
| 2019 | 3,221 | 2,950 | 271 more under-20s |
| 2020 | 3,154 | 3,084 | 70 more under-20s |
| 2021 | 3,142 | 3,186 | 44 more seniors |
| 2024 | 3,022 | 3,527 | 505 more seniors |
The ABS figures show how the age balance changed, but they do not explain why. They measure the estimated resident population as at 30 June each year and do not record why people move or stay.
Housing may be one factor
Northern Beaches Council’s Local Housing Strategy examines population change and the need for a wider range of homes across the region.
Housing costs and ageing in place may contribute to the local trend, but the ABS figures do not measure their effect. Separate property, migration and household data would be needed to test those links.
The population data also does not show how long residents have lived in the area or whether they own or rent their homes.
A larger population aged 65 and over may increase demand for accessible footpaths, safe crossings, public transport and local health services. At the same time, children and teenagers still make up almost 23 per cent of the population. Schools, playgrounds, sporting facilities and youth programs therefore remain important.
The changing age mix means local planning must consider both groups. It also gives councils and service providers a clearer view of the people living in the area.
