🔍

Empire Vale

NSW 2478 • New South Wales

185
Population (2021)
N/A
Median Personal Income
14.27 km²
Area
N/A
Median Rent
RuralRiversidePeacefulCoastal Proximity

About Empire Vale

Empire Vale is a small rural locality in New South Wales' Northern Rivers region, situated within Ballina Shire on the banks of the Richmond River. As of the 2021 Census, the locality had a population of 185, with a median age of 48 years. Originally known as German Creek, it was renamed Empire Vale in 1915 and retains a quiet pastoral character along the riverine plains north of Ballina.

The locality is bounded by River Drive, which follows the Richmond River and provides access to nearby Ballina and the broader Northern Rivers area. Residents are within easy reach of Patches Beach, South Wall surfing beach, and the coastal amenities of Ballina, approximately 15 to 20 minutes away. Empire Vale Public School serves the local community, and the rural setting makes it appealing to those seeking a tranquil lifestyle close to the Northern Rivers coast.

Empire Vale falls under postcode 2478 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Ballina electorate.

📍 Location

State
New South Wales
Postcode
2478
Urban Area
N/A
LGA / Council
N/A
Federal Electorate
Richmond
State Electorate
Ballina
Type
Locality
Timezone
Sydney (UTC+10)
Coordinates
-28.87°, 153.53°
Statistical Area
N/A
Area
14.27 km²
Elevation
0m

🏷️ Property Prices 2025

Median sale prices in Empire Vale for 2025. Based on every residential settlement recorded by the NSW Valuer General in 2025.

🏡House
$845K
5 sales · vs 2024 n/a

Source: NSW Valuer General — Property Sales Information. Strata-titled sales are counted as units; all others as houses. Suburbs with fewer than 5 sales in a category are omitted.

🚌 Transport & Commute

Bus Services

  • Limited local services — Ballina 20-30 min

Commute to Sydney CBD

Distance
700 km
By Train
No direct train service; nearest V/Line from Grafton
By Car (Peak)
8 hours (via Pacific Highway)
By Car (Off-Peak)
7.5 hours

🛣️ Ballina Byron Gateway Airport (~20 km) offers flights to Sydney and Brisbane

Walkability Almost All Errands Require a Car

Rural locality with no footpaths or local shops; a car is essential

🛒 Supermarkets Nearby

No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.

🎓 Schools

👥 Demographics

Census 2016
0
Census 2021
185
▲ 0% growth

Population Growth

Gender Distribution (Census 2021)

Personal Income 2016
N/A
Personal Income 2021
N/A
▲ 0% increase

Personal Income Comparison (2016 vs 2021)

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

Nearby Suburbs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Empire Vale known for? +

Empire Vale is known for its peaceful setting along the Richmond River in NSW's Northern Rivers, with rural properties and proximity to Ballina's beaches and coastal attractions.

How far is Empire Vale from Ballina? +

Empire Vale is approximately 15 to 20 kilometres from Ballina, a short drive via River Drive or local roads.

Does Empire Vale have public transport? +

Public transport in Empire Vale is limited. There is no rail service, and bus connections to Ballina are infrequent. A car is the most practical way to get around.

What is the population of Empire Vale? +

According to the 2021 Census, Empire Vale has a population of 185 residents, with a median age of 48 years, in a rural locality of approximately 14.3 square kilometres.

Is Empire Vale a good place to live? +

Empire Vale suits those looking for a quiet rural lifestyle within easy reach of Northern Rivers beaches and the services of Ballina. It appeals to retirees and families who value space and natural surroundings.

What is the postcode for Empire Vale? +

The postcode for Empire Vale, NSW is 2478.

What is the median house price in Empire Vale? +

As of 2025, the median house price is $845,000. Figures are based on NSW Valuer General — Property Sales Information.