🔍

Ruthven

NSW 2480 • New South Wales

114
Population (2021)
N/A
Median Personal Income
17.71 km²
Area
N/A
Median Rent
RuralFarming CommunityHinterlandSmall Community

About Ruthven

Ruthven is a small rural locality in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, located 16.3 kilometres south of Lismore within the City of Lismore local government area. With just 114 residents recorded in the 2021 census, it is an intimate farming community spread across approximately 17.7 square kilometres of fertile hinterland. The area sits on the traditional Country of the Widjabul and Wia-bal peoples of the Bundjalung Nation. The locality's European name was bestowed by early settler Alex McDonald, who named it after Ruthven in the Badenoch region of Scotland.

Ruthven offers a quiet, rural lifestyle typical of the NSW Northern Rivers hinterland, characterised by rolling green hills, small-scale farming, and a tight-knit community. Residents enjoy the lush natural surroundings of the Richmond River catchment area while having access to Lismore's full range of services, including Southern Cross University, hospitals, and shopping, within a short drive. The broader Northern Rivers region is well regarded for its alternative lifestyle communities, local produce markets, and proximity to national parks and coastal beaches. It is suited to those seeking space, privacy, and a slower pace of life.

Ruthven falls under postcode 2480 and is governed by the local council Council (LGA). For state elections, residents vote in the Lismore electorate.

📍 Location

State
New South Wales
Postcode
2480
Urban Area
N/A
LGA / Council
N/A
Federal Electorate
Richmond
State Electorate
Lismore
Type
Locality
Timezone
Sydney (UTC+10)
Coordinates
-28.71°, 153.26°
Statistical Area
N/A
Area
17.71 km²
Elevation
0m

🚌 Transport & Commute

Bus Services

  • Lismore City Bus Services — Lismore CBD ~30 min from locality edge

Commute to Lismore CBD

Distance
16.3 km
By Bus
Limited service; ~35–40 min
By Car (Peak)
~20 min
By Car (Off-Peak)
~18 min

🛣️ Ruthven has no train access. The nearest rail services are at Casino (~35 km) on the North Coast line. Travel to Lismore by car is the primary option.

Walkability Walker's Paradise Reversed — Car Essential

A purely rural locality with no footpaths, public transport, or local amenities within walking distance. A private vehicle is essential for all daily needs.

🛒 Supermarkets Nearby

No major supermarkets listed for this suburb.

🎓 Schools

👥 Demographics

Census 2016
0
Census 2021
114
▲ 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 Ruthven known for? +

Ruthven is a small rural locality in the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, located 16. With just 114 residents recorded in the 2021 census, it is an intimate farming community spread across approximately 17.7 square kilometres of fertile hinterland.

How far is Ruthven from Lismore CBD? +

Ruthven is approximately 16.3 kilometres from Lismore CBD. The drive takes around ~20 min during peak hour and ~18 min off-peak.

Does Ruthven have public transport? +

Ruthven is served by bus routes (Lismore City Bus Services) connecting to Lismore CBD with a travel time of approximately ~30 min from locality edge. There is no train or metro station in the suburb.

What is the population of Ruthven? +

According to the 2021 Census, Ruthven has a population of approximately 114 residents. It is one of the smaller localities in NSW.

Is Ruthven a good place to live? +

Ruthven appeals to those who value a relaxed rural lifestyle, open space, and a small community atmosphere. Everyday services require travel to the nearest town, so a private vehicle is a must.

What is the postcode for Ruthven? +

The postcode for Ruthven in NSW is 2480.