The statistics show Lithgow residents are earning the most money in the Central West.

For the 2009-2010 period for personal tax, Lithgow residents had the highest average income of $59,902 and Cowra was the lowest, with $47,213.

Bathurst’s average income was $53,964, Orange was a bit higher with $56,711 and Parkes was the second lowest with $51,183.

In the year preceding, 2008-2009, the average income for Bathurst was $51,194, in 12 months the average income has increased more than $2500.

Chief Executive Officer for the Western Institute of Research, Tom Murphy said he is not surprised by the findings.

“It has always been the case that Lithgow has a higher income, that is because of it’s mining industry and electricity generation,” he said.

“What is interesting is their house prices are not as expensive as Bathurst, even though generally the wages are higher in Lithgow.

“The figures for Bathurst are more or less what I would expect, generally the wages are good, housing is more affordable then Sydney, but we have good proximity to Sydney.

“Wages have increased in the 12 months and that, I think, would be due to what industries are in Bathurst, including education and infrastructure.”

Mr Murphy said it is not just one industry or area that will push up wages, it is a combination of things.

“Lithgow has mining, electricity generation and proximity to Sydney,” he said.

“Orange has mining and professional development such as education and a good hospital, Parkes has mining, but doesn’t have the other industries to back it up.

“Bathurst is proving to be a great place to live, it has good wages, education, professional development and affordable housing.”

Surgeons remained the highest paid profession, with income in 2009-2010, reported at $332,800.

Apprentice hairdressers were among the lowest paid, just $22,700 annually.