Chart Color Schemes
This analysis uses ABS Statistical Areas Level 2 (SA2) boundaries, which can materially differ from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) even when sharing similar names.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (e.g., census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb/locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.
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ABS ERP | -- people | --
2021 Census | -- people
Sales Activity
Curious about local property values? Filter the chart to assess the volume and appreciation (including resales) trends and regional comparisons, or scroll to the map below view this information at an individual property level.
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Sales Detail
What it costs to rent in Berowra - Brooklyn - Cowan
Median weekly rents, year-on-year movement and bond-lodgement activity for Berowra - Brooklyn - Cowan (2081). Sourced from the NSW Rental Bond Board, DCJ Family & Community Services.
Median rent
$672
per week · Q4 2025
YoY change
▲+7.2%
vs same quarter last year
Active bonds
≈27
est. · currently held
New bonds
≈0
est. · this quarter
Latest Quarter Breakdown · Q4 2025
| Dwelling | Bedrooms | Median $/wk | Active bonds | New bonds (Qtr) | YoY | Quality |
|---|
SOURCE: NSW Rental Bond Board (DCJ Family & Community Services), processed by AreaSearch. Imputed values are flagged. Latest publication:
Population
Berowra - Brooklyn - Cowan is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends
Based on AreaSearch's analysis, Berowra - Brooklyn - Cowan's population is around 11,772 as of May 2026. This reflects a decrease of 18 people (0.2%) since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 11,790 people. The change is inferred from the estimated resident population of 11,761 from the ABS as of June 2025 and an additional 16 validated new addresses since the Census date. This level of population equates to a density ratio of 144 persons per square kilometer. Population growth for the area was primarily driven by overseas migration that contributed approximately 68.8% of overall population gains during recent periods.
AreaSearch is adopting ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area, as released in 2024 with 2022 as the base year. For any SA2 areas not covered by this data, AreaSearch is utilising the NSW State Government's SA2 level projections, as released in 2022 with 2021 as the base year. Growth rates by age group from these aggregations are also applied to all areas for years 2032 to 2041. Moving forward with demographic trends, lower quartile growth of Australian statistical areas is anticipated, with the area expected to grow by 406 persons to 2041 based on the latest annual ERP population numbers, reflecting an increase of 3.4% in total over the 16 years.
Frequently Asked Questions - Population
Development
AreaSearch assessment of residential development drivers sees a low level of activity in Berowra - Brooklyn - Cowan, placing the area among the bottom 25% of areas assessed nationally
Berowra-Brooklyn-Cowan recorded approximately 24 residential property approvals per year over the past five financial years, totalling 122 homes. As of FY-26, 13 approvals have been recorded. The area has experienced a declining population in recent years, with new supply likely meeting demand and offering good choice for buyers. The average expected construction cost value of new homes is $479,000, indicating that developers are targeting the premium market segment with higher-end properties.
In FY-26, $11.3 million in commercial approvals have been registered, demonstrating moderate levels of commercial development compared to Greater Sydney. Berowra-Brooklyn-Cowan records about three-quarters the building activity per person nationally and ranks among the 38th percentile of areas assessed, resulting in relatively constrained buyer choice and supporting interest in existing dwellings. This is below average nationally, reflecting the area's maturity and possible planning constraints. New building activity shows 95% standalone homes and 5% townhouses or apartments, maintaining the area's traditional low density character with a focus on family homes appealing to those seeking space.
The estimated population per dwelling approval is 427 people, indicating a quiet, low activity development environment. Population forecasts suggest Berowra-Brooklyn-Cowan will gain 395 residents by 2041. Based on current development patterns, new housing supply should readily meet demand, offering good conditions for buyers and potentially facilitating population growth beyond current projections.
Frequently Asked Questions - Development
Development applications around Berowra - Brooklyn - Cowan
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| Lodged | Address | Description | Type | Distance | Status |
|---|
SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.
Infrastructure
Berowra - Brooklyn - Cowan has very high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 20% nationally
Changes to local infrastructure significantly impact an area's performance. AreaSearch has identified three projects expected to influence the region: Newcastle-Sydney and Wollongong-Sydney Rail Line Upgrades, Kooroowall-undi (Peat Island) and Foreshore Development Project, Old Mooney Mooney Creek Bridge Maintenance, Connecting Northern Beaches - Cycling & Walking Paths. The following details projects most relevant to the area.
Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.
INFRASTRUCTURE SEARCH
Denotes AI-based impression for illustrative purposes only, not to be taken as definitive under any circumstances. Please follow links and conduct other investigations from the project's source for actual imagery. Developers and project owners wishing us to use original imagery please Contact Us and we will do so.
Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure
Northern Beaches Coast Walk
A 36km continuous coastal walking trail linking Manly to Palm Beach. The project integrates existing paths with new boardwalks, stairs, and viewing platforms. Recent milestones include the completion of the Robert Dunn Reserve segment and ongoing works on the McKillop Park boardwalk and the Whale Beach to Palm Beach connection to ensure pedestrian safety and environmental protection.
Mona Vale Hospital Reconfiguration
The Mona Vale Hospital Reconfiguration has transformed the campus into a specialized hub for rehabilitation, sub-acute, and community health services. Key components include a new 20-bed building housing a Geriatric Evaluation and Management (GEM) unit and the Northern Beaches' first dedicated palliative care unit. The project also involved refurbishing the former Emergency Department into a 24/7 Urgent Care Centre, constructing a new support services building, and relocating the helipad to ensure seamless integration with the Northern Beaches Hospital.
Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy
Comprehensive NSW state planning reforms designed to increase housing density in well-located areas. The policy mandates mid-rise apartment buildings (3-6 storeys) and low-rise multi-dwelling housing (terraces, townhouses, and dual occupancies) within 800m of 171 high-frequency transport hubs and town centres. As of May 2026, the policy is fully operational following the phased rollout of dual occupancy provisions in July 2024 and mid-rise apartment provisions in early 2025. Recent updates include refined floor space ratios (FSR) and non-refusal standards to streamline local council assessments.
Sydney Metro Program
Australia's largest public transport program, comprising multiple metro lines across Greater Sydney. The M1 City and Southwest line is operating to Sydenham, while the Sydenham to Bankstown conversion is in final testing with weekend closures scheduled from May to July 2026 as the project moves toward trial running and a second-half 2026 opening. Sydney Metro West is a 24 kilometre underground line between Westmead and Hunter Street targeting a 2032 opening, with confirmed stations at Westmead, Parramatta, Sydney Olympic Park, North Strathfield, Burwood North, Five Dock, The Bays, Pyrmont and Hunter Street. Sydney Metro Western Sydney Airport is under construction between St Marys, the new Western Sydney International Airport and Bradfield, with the objective of opening when the airport starts passenger services.
Mariyung Fleet (New Intercity Fleet)
The Mariyung Fleet is a 610-carriage double-deck electric train fleet (D sets) replacing the ageing V-set and Oscar fleets across the NSW intercity network. Delivered by the RailConnect NSW consortium (UGL, Hyundai Rotem, Mitsubishi Electric Australia), the trains feature wider 2x2 seating with arm rests, tray tables and cup holders, charging ports, dedicated luggage, pram and bicycle spaces, accessible toilets, dedicated wheelchair spaces, CCTV, digital information screens and Automatic Selective Door Operation. The fleet operates in 4, 6, 8 or 10-car formations. Passenger services commenced on the Central Coast & Newcastle Line on 3 December 2024, on the Blue Mountains Line on 13 October 2025, and on the South Coast Line on 14 April 2026. The South Coast Line rollout begins with seven 4 and 6-car sets, scaling to 16 trains by 2027 with 8-car sets later in 2026 and 10-car configurations in 2027. The project includes the Kangy Angy Maintenance Facility (operated by UGL on a 15-year contract) and extensive corridor upgrades including platform extensions, signalling modifications, balise installation and overhead wiring works.
Hills Shire Council Infrastructure Delivery Program 2025-2026
The Hills Shire Council's multi-year infrastructure delivery program, with the 2024-25 plan centred on a $162.8 million capital works spend covering roads, parks, paths and community facilities across the rapidly growing Hills Shire. Major works include the $24.4 million four-laning of Annangrove Road between Withers and Windsor Roads, the $20.2 million Withers Road upgrade, and the $28.5 million Boundary Road transformation including a new bridge over Killarney Chain of Ponds Creek. Additional works include the Livvi's Place expansion at Bernie Mullane Sports Complex, a cycleway along Cattai Creek, and shared pathways along Norwest Boulevard. The 2025-26 Delivery Program 2025-2029 has since been adopted, and a draft 2026-27 Hills Shire Plan proposing a $268 million investment has been released for community feedback. Council continues to advocate for $207 million in NSW Government funding to address a critical infrastructure deficit in the Box Hill growth area.
Newcastle-Sydney and Wollongong-Sydney Rail Line Upgrades
Program of upgrades to existing intercity rail corridors linking Newcastle-Central Coast-Sydney and Wollongong-Sydney to reduce travel times and improve reliability. Current scope includes timetable and service changes under the Rail Service Improvement Program, targeted network upgrades (signalling, power, station works) and the introduction of the Mariyung intercity fleet on the Central Coast & Newcastle Line, alongside Federal planning led by the High Speed Rail Authority for a dedicated Sydney-Newcastle high speed corridor.
Opal Next Generation Ticketing System
NSW is upgrading the Opal ticketing system to an account-based platform (Opal Next Gen). The program adds digital Opal cards to device wallets, expands contactless options, modernises bus equipment, and improves apps and web services for planning, payment and travel information. Procurement and enabling contracts are underway led by Transport for NSW.
Employment
The employment landscape in Berowra - Brooklyn - Cowan shows performance that lags behind national averages across key labour market indicators
Berowra-Brooklyn-Cowan has a well-educated workforce with notable representation in the technology sector. As of December 2025, its unemployment rate is 4.4%. Over the past year, employment stability has been relative.
There are 6,364 residents employed currently, with an unemployment rate of 0.3% higher than Greater Sydney's rate of 4.2%. Workforce participation in the area is similar to Greater Sydney's at 68.8%. According to Census responses, 49.9% of residents work from home, though Covid-19 lockdown impacts should be considered. Key industries of employment are health care & social assistance, education & training, and professional & technical services.
The area has a particularly high concentration in education & training, with employment levels at 1.4 times the regional average. Conversely, transport, postal & warehousing shows lower representation at 3.2% compared to the regional average of 5.3%. There appears to be limited local employment opportunities as indicated by the count of Census working population versus resident population. In the year to December 2025, employment levels increased by 0.2%, and labour force increased by 1.0%, leading to an unemployment rise of 0.7 percentage points. By comparison, Greater Sydney recorded higher employment growth at 2.2%. Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment forecasts from May-25 suggest that while national employment is forecast to expand by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, local employment in Berowra-Brooklyn-Cowan should increase by 7.0% over five years and 14.3% over ten years based on a simple weighting extrapolation of industry-specific projections.
Frequently Asked Questions - Employment
Income
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 75% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch
The median income among taxpayers in Berowra-Brooklyn-Cowan SA2 was $64,296 in financial year 2023. The average income stood at $82,834 during the same period. These figures were higher than Greater Sydney's median income of $60,817 and average income of $83,030 for the same year. By March 2026, based on a 10.32% growth in wages since financial year 2023, the estimated median income would be approximately $70,931, while the average income is projected to reach around $91,382. According to the 2021 Census, incomes in Berowra-Brooklyn-Cowan rank highly nationally, with household, family, and personal incomes between the 75th and 90th percentiles. The income distribution shows that 28.0% of residents (3,296 people) fall within the $1,500-$2,999 bracket, similar to regional levels where 30.9% occupy this bracket. Berowra-Brooklyn-Cowan exhibits considerable affluence with 42.0% earning over $3,000 per week, supporting premium retail and service offerings. Housing accounts for 13.9% of income, and strong earnings place residents within the 90th percentile for disposable income. The area's SEIFA income ranking places it in the 9th decile.
Frequently Asked Questions - Income
Housing
Berowra - Brooklyn - Cowan is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership
The dwelling structure in Berowra-Brooklyn-Cowan, as per the latest Census evaluation, consists of 94.2% houses and 5.9% other dwellings. This is compared to Sydney metro's 55.9% houses and 44.1% other dwellings. Home ownership in Berowra-Brooklyn-Cowan stands at 40.0%, with the remaining dwellings either mortgaged (47.6%) or rented (12.3%). The median monthly mortgage repayment in the area is $2,528, surpassing Sydney metro's average of $2,427. Meanwhile, the median weekly rent figure stands at $560, compared to Sydney metro's $470. Nationally, Berowra-Brooklyn-Cowan's mortgage repayments are higher than the Australian average of $1,863, while rents are substantially above the national figure of $375.
Frequently Asked Questions - Housing
Household Composition
Berowra - Brooklyn - Cowan features high concentrations of family households, with a higher-than-average median household size
Family households account for 83.1% of all households, consisting of 46.9% couples with children, 26.4% couples without children, and 9.4% single parent families. Non-family households comprise the remaining 16.9%, with lone person households at 15.9% and group households making up 1.1% of the total. The median household size is 2.9 people, which is larger than the Greater Sydney average of 2.7.
Frequently Asked Questions - Households
Local Schools & Education
Berowra - Brooklyn - Cowan shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators
The area's university qualification rate is 36.6%, significantly lower than the SA4 region average of 57.1%. This presents both a challenge and an opportunity for targeted educational initiatives. Bachelor degrees are most common at 24.1%, followed by postgraduate qualifications (9.2%) and graduate diplomas (3.3%). Trade and technical skills are prominent, with 34.5% of residents aged 15+ holding vocational credentials – advanced diplomas (11.9%) and certificates (22.6%).
Educational participation is high, with 31.0% of residents currently enrolled in formal education. This includes 10.6% in primary education, 9.6% in secondary education, and 5.0% pursuing tertiary education.
Frequently Asked Questions - Education
Schools Detail
Nearby Services & Amenities
Transport
Transport servicing is moderate compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility
Berowra - Brooklyn - Cowan has 117 active public transport stops offering a mix of ferry, train, and bus services. These stops are served by 22 routes, collectively providing 1,822 weekly passenger trips. Residents have good transport accessibility, typically living 235 meters from the nearest stop. Most residents commute outward, with car being the dominant mode at 84%, while train accounts for 9%. Vehicle ownership averages 1.6 per dwelling, above the regional average. According to the 2021 Census, 49.9% of residents work from home, which may reflect COVID-19 conditions.
Service frequency averages 260 trips per day across all routes, equating to approximately 15 weekly trips per stop. The accompanying map displays the 100 nearest stops to the location's centrepoint.
Frequently Asked Questions - Transport
Transport Stops Detail
Health
Berowra - Brooklyn - Cowan's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions
AreaSearch's assessment shows Berowra - Brooklyn - Cowan has excellent health outcomes. Mortality rates and chronic condition prevalence are low across both young and old age cohorts.
Private health cover is exceptionally high at 61%, compared to the national average of 55.7%. The most common conditions are asthma (8.3%) and arthritis (7.8%), with 69.7% of residents reporting no medical ailments, slightly lower than Greater Sydney's 74.6%. The under-65 population has better health outcomes than the average. There are 18.8% seniors aged 65 and over (2,214 people), higher than Greater Sydney's 15.5%. Senior health outcomes align with national rankings.
Frequently Asked Questions - Health
Cultural Diversity
In terms of cultural diversity, Berowra - Brooklyn - Cowan records figures broadly comparable to the national average, as found in AreaSearch's assessment of a number of language and cultural background related metrics
Berowra-Brooklyn-Cowan, as per the Australian Census of 28 August 2016, had a cultural diversity index of 11.4%, with residents speaking languages other than English at home. Overseas-born population constituted 23.7%. Christianity was the predominant religion, accounting for 51.5% of the population.
Judaism's representation in Berowra-Brooklyn-Cowan was 0.5%, higher than Greater Sydney's 0.8%. Top ancestral groups were English (30.7%), Australian (26.6%), and Irish (8.4%). Notable divergences included Welsh at 0.8% compared to the regional average of 0.4%, Russian at 0.5% versus 0.4%, and Hungarian at 0.4% against a regional average of 0.3%.
Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity
Age
Berowra - Brooklyn - Cowan's median age exceeds the national pattern
The median age in Berowra-Brooklyn-Cowan is 42 years, which is significantly higher than Greater Sydney's average of 37 years and Australia's average of 38 years. The 45-54 age group makes up 15.7% of the population compared to Greater Sydney, while the 25-34 age group constitutes only 6.0%. According to post-2021 Census data, the 15-24 age group has increased from 12.7% to 14.5%, and the 75-84 age group has risen from 5.5% to 7.2%. Conversely, the 5-14 age group has decreased from 15.2% to 13.8%. By 2041, population forecasts indicate substantial demographic shifts in Berowra-Brooklyn-Cowan. The 85+ age group is projected to grow by 163%, reaching 572 people from 217. Notably, the combined 65+ age groups are expected to account for 94% of total population growth, reflecting the area's aging demographic profile. In contrast, the 0-4 and 55-64 age cohorts are anticipated to experience population declines.