Wollongong
Wollongong scores well on community services (59/100) but only 29/100 on core operations — a gap worth watching.
"The Gong — coastal university city between the escarpment and the sea"
See where Wollongong ranks: Best Councils in New South Wales 2026
New South Wales · regional council · Pop. 221,894
Data last updated: 2023-24 · Data confidence: high
Overall Score
45 out of 100
#55 of 79 regional councils in NSW
#92 in New South Wales
Score Breakdown
| Category | Score |
|---|---|
| Sustainability | 37/100 |
| Community Services | 59/100 |
| Lifestyle & Amenity | 54/100 |
| Core Operations | 29/100 |
What This Means For You
Among regional councils, Wollongong performs strongest in Community Services (scoring 59 out of 100 against peers), with room to improve in Core Operations (currently 29 out of 100).
What Makes This Place Unique
The Gong — coastal university city between the escarpment and the sea
Wollongong sits dramatically between the Illawarra escarpment and the Pacific Ocean. It's a former steel city that's reinvented itself around the university, health services, and a genuine coastal lifestyle that's far more affordable than Sydney.
Known For
- University of Wollongong — major research institution
- Sea Cliff Bridge — iconic coastal drive
- Grand Pacific Drive from Sydney
- Nan Tien Temple — largest Buddhist temple in the Southern Hemisphere
Living Here
Wollongong offers genuine city amenity with coastal lifestyle at a fraction of Sydney prices. The commute to Sydney is feasible (1-1.5 hours by train). The escarpment backdrop is stunning. A strong alternative to Sydney for families and remote workers.
Hidden Gem
Sublime Point lookout — the most dramatic viewpoint on the Illawarra escarpment, overlooking the coast with vertigo-inducing cliff edges.