Area profile · Greater Sydney
Darlinghurst has an estimated 11,469 residents, up 8.0% since the 2021 Census, with 13 projects tracked in Darlinghurst.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Directly adjoining the Sydney CBD in New South Wales, the Darlinghurst Statistical Area (Lv2) is an established, affluent urban community recognised for its vibrant culture, diverse population, historic Victorian and Art Deco architecture, and dynamic arts, dining, and nightlife scenes. Famous for hosting the annual Sydney Mardi Gras parade, the neighbourhood embraces diversity and celebrates LGBTQ+ pride. The demographic profile is predominantly defined by young adults and working-age individuals, with a high concentration of lone person and group households contributing to a low average household size. As of the latest population estimate date of Aug 2026, AreaSearch establishes that Darlinghurst has an Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of approximately 11,469 residents.
Darlinghurst presents unique residential and commercial market dynamics, marked by severely limited dwelling supply alongside exceptionally high property sales activity relative to its population size.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Directly adjoining the Sydney CBD in New South Wales, the Darlinghurst Statistical Area (Lv2) is an established, affluent urban community recognised for its vibrant culture, diverse population, historic Victorian and Art Deco architecture, and dynamic arts, dining, and nightlife scenes. Famous for hosting the annual Sydney Mardi Gras parade, the neighbourhood embraces diversity and celebrates LGBTQ+ pride. The demographic profile is predominantly defined by young adults and working-age individuals, with a high concentration of lone person and group households contributing to a low average household size. As of the latest population estimate date of Aug 2026, AreaSearch establishes that Darlinghurst has an Estimated Resident Population (ERP) of approximately 11,469 residents.
Darlinghurst presents unique residential and commercial market dynamics, marked by severely limited dwelling supply alongside exceptionally high property sales activity relative to its population size.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 8,504 in 2001 and 11,458 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 11,469 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 34.3%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $4000+, 30.2%.
Darlinghurst ranks in the 99th percentile nationally for amenities and the 98th for transport & access.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Darlinghurst is $818 a week, up 4.1% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 4% above Greater Sydney. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.4%.
4% above Greater Sydney on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $890 in 2017, $1,169 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $628 in 2017, $782 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
Yield is indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools.
| Address | Sale price | Settled | Address type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 439 Liverpool Street, Darlinghurst NSW 2010 | $3,150,000 | 22 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 126 Womerah Avenue, Darlinghurst NSW 2010 | $2,580,000 | 22 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 69/1 Tewkesbury Avenue, Darlinghurst NSW 2010 | $1,850,000 | 21 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 29 Taylor Street, Darlinghurst NSW 2010 | $1,975,000 | 19 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 14/74 McLachlan Avenue, Darlinghurst NSW 2010 | $1,400,000 | 19 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 702/38 College Street, Darlinghurst NSW 2010 | $386,000 | 14 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 14/44 Hardie Street, Darlinghurst NSW 2010 | $710,000 | 13 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 41/1 Tewkesbury Avenue, Darlinghurst NSW 2010 | $1,610,000 | 12 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 6/74 Surrey Street, Darlinghurst NSW 2010 | $690,000 | 12 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 9/251 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst NSW 2010 | $550,000 | 12 Oct 2026 | Unit |
The 10 most recent of the 44 residential sales recorded since 11 Aug 2026 (the latest settled 22 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 44, houses and units together, was $1,110,000 (a different set from the medians above). Source: NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch, to October 2026. Commercial, vacant land and nominal sales are left out. Unit means the address has a unit number; a street address has none.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $818 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +4.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.4% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $2.33m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $1.00m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $1,110,000 | Median of the 44 most recent residential sales, settled 11 Aug 2026 to 22 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $1,169 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +5.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $782 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +4.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 2.2% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 4.1% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Sydney Inner City | $884 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Sydney Inner City, over 12 months | +5.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Greater Sydney | $789 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Sydney, over 12 months | +5.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, NSW | $715 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, NSW, over 12 months | +5.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 257 tracked applications: 77 approved, 38 under assessment, 142 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 13 projects in Darlinghurst (4 under construction) and 188 more in the surrounding area.
Major redevelopment and expansion of the Sydney Jewish Museum, retaining the existing Holocaust Museum while adding a new Centre for Contemporary Jewish Life and Tolerance, expanded education facilities and new exhibition galleries. Construction is underway following development approval.
Comprehensive redevelopment and campus master plan transformation of St Vincent's Hospital Darlinghurst. The project includes state-of-the-art acute clinical services, integrated ambulatory care facilities, research spaces, and modernised patient accommodation.
Oxford & Foley is a heritage-led mixed-use redevelopment of three commercial blocks at 60, 90 and 120 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, delivered by AsheMorgan and TOGA Group on a 99-year leasehold from the City of Sydney.
The Post House is a 45-storey mixed-use tower in the Tech Central precinct at Haymarket, Sydney, also known as TOGA Central. The tower rises above the heritage-listed former Parcels Post Office, which is retained, and provides about 29,228 square metres of office space, a 204-room hotel, and ground-floor retail and dining.
The Mariyung Fleet is a new double-deck electric intercity fleet replacing the ageing V-set and Oscar trains in NSW. Built by the RailConnect NSW consortium of UGL, Hyundai Rotem and Mitsubishi Electric Australia, the trains feature 2x2 seating, charging ports, luggage, pram and bicycle spaces, and accessible toilets.
Atlassian Central is a 39-storey hybrid timber and concrete office tower at 8-10 Lee Street, Haymarket, beside Central Station in the NSW Government's Tech Central precinct. Designed by SHoP Architects and BVN and built by a Built and Obayashi joint venture for Dexus and Atlassian, it began construction in August 2022.
Adaptive reuse and residential redevelopment of the heritage Aston Martin dealership site delivering 27 residences across apartments, lofts, and multi-level terraces. Designed by MHNDU with interiors by Lawless & Meyerson, the project incorporates ground-floor retail and basement parking while preserving the heritage streetscape facade.
Redevelopment of the SBW Stables Theatre, home of Griffin Theatre Company since 1980, to rebuild the venue from the ground up with improved accessibility (lift access) and a 44 per cent increase in seating capacity, from 105 to 138 seats.
Adaptive reuse and residential redevelopment of the heritage-listed Patteson building into 15 boutique luxury apartments. Designed by SJB Architects, the development integrates modern residential living while conserving significant heritage fabric within the inner-city precinct of Darlinghurst.
A $2 billion transformative mixed-use redevelopment of the former Harbourside Shopping Centre at Darling Harbour, delivered as a 50/50 joint venture between Mirvac and Mitsubishi Estate Co.
Demolition of existing commercial buildings and construction of a boutique residential apartment building comprising luxury residences and basement parking. Approved by the City of Sydney Council with architectural design responsive to the local heritage conservation area context.
Alterations and additions to the existing boarding house premises at 355-357 Liverpool Street to deliver updated student accommodation and co-living boarding rooms with modernised communal facilities.
Images marked AI impression are illustrative only and not photographs of the project; follow the project links for actual imagery. Original imagery? Contact us.
AreaSearch has tracked 257 substantial development applications lodged in and around Darlinghurst over the past 5 years, 130 in the last 12 months; 38 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 1, 2022 31, 2023 21, 2024 31, 2025 51, 2026 (to Nov) 122.
Key application 256 Crown Street, Darlinghurst Retail | $29m
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 257 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 130 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 0.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 5th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 5 | ABS building approvals | 11th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 77 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 38 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Darlinghurst SA2 include: Oxford & Foley (Construction); Sydney Jewish Museum Redevelopment (Construction); St Vincent's Hospital Darlinghurst Campus Redevelopment (Planning); East Sydney Collection (Planning); and 355-357 Liverpool Street Boarding House Conversion (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Darlinghurst SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Transport & Logistics, and Arts & Culture, among others.
With an infrastructure score in the top 40%, the Darlinghurst SA2 demonstrates above-average development activity compared to national benchmarks.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Darlinghurst is exceptionally low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Darlinghurst SA2 area has seen 14 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Darlinghurst SA2's current population of 11,469 has been supported by 5 approvals on average over recent years.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Darlinghurst SA2's approval levels have been consistent with the yearly average of 5, showing stable development patterns.
Over the past five years, the Darlinghurst SA2 has seen 23 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential market oversupply.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Darlinghurst reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 11,469 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +8.0% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 13,384 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 99th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | -0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | -0.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 10,615 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 854 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 0.86 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Darlinghurst SA2 was estimated to be approximately 11,469 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 11,458 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The darlinghurst sa2 has added approximately 854 people and shown a 8.05% increase from the 10,615 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Darlinghurst SA2 is estimated at 13,336 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Darlinghurst SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of -0.5% per annum.
Population growth in the Darlinghurst SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (98.2%), Natural increase (1.8%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 98.2% of overall population gains.
Darlinghurst's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 35 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 12.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 4.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 41.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 76.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 37 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 1.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 2.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 7.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 34.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 20.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 9.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 6.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 4.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Darlinghurst SA2 at 35 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 37 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 35 years as at August 2026, Darlinghurst is 2 years younger than the Greater Sydney 2021 Census average (37 years) and 3 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Darlinghurst SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 34.3% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Darlinghurst SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 2.4% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Darlinghurst SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Sydney. The most over-represented age groups are 25-34 year-olds (34.3% vs 16.2%) and 35-44 year-olds (20.9% vs 15.2%). The most under-represented age groups are 5-14 year-olds (2.4% vs 11.8%) and 0-4 year-olds (1.9% vs 5.5%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 4.3% of the population in the Darlinghurst SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 12.4% of the population in the Darlinghurst SA2 as at August 2026.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 88% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $77,149 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 94th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $139,618 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,279 | 2021 Census, weekly | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,535 | 2021 Census, weekly | 98th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 40.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $3,913 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 14.9% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Darlinghurst SA2 is approximately $82,071. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $77,149.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Darlinghurst SA2 is approximately $148,526. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $139,618.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Darlinghurst SA2 is approximately $82,071 compared to $67,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $77,149 and $63,183 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Darlinghurst SA2 is approximately $148,526 compared to $92,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $139,618 and $86,684 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Darlinghurst SA2's households (~30.2% / 1,628 households) is the $4000+ cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Darlinghurst SA2 is the $4000+ group, representing about 30.2% of households. In comparison, Greater Sydney's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 30.9% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Darlinghurst SA2 is $2,279/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Darlinghurst SA2 is $3,913/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Darlinghurst SA2 is $1,535/wk.
The Darlinghurst SA2's income level is among the top percentile nationally according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Darlinghurst SA2's median income among taxpayers is $77,149 and the average income stands at $139,618, which compares to figures for Greater Sydney's of $63,183 and $86,684 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $82,071 (median) and $148,526 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Darlinghurst SA2 is $7,785 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The darlinghurst sa2's disposable income is $7,785 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The labour market in Darlinghurst demonstrates typical performance when compared to similar areas across Australia.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 4.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 76.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 8,102 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 14,741 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 8,465 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Darlinghurst SA2 has approximately 8,102 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.3%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Darlinghurst SA2 stands at 4.3%, which is broadly in line with Greater Sydney's rate of 4.2%. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Darlinghurst SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are professional & technical (23.7% of employment), finance & insurance (12.5%), and health care & social assistance (10.5%). Other significant employers include accommodation & food and retail trade.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Darlinghurst SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Greater Sydney saw employment increased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the Darlinghurst SA2 is 76.7%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate leading the Greater Sydney average of 68.9%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
The darlinghurst sa2 shows notable specialisation in professional & technical, which employs 23.7% of the local workforce compared to 11.5% across Greater Sydney. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 2.1, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The darlinghurst sa2's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 3.8% decline, ranking 32nd out of 37 regions nationally.
Darlinghurst demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 2% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 41.7% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 18.5% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 63.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 8.5% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.7% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.0% | 2021 Census | 35th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 17.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 23.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 10.1% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 1.8% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
63.9% of people aged 15 and over in the Darlinghurst SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in Greater Sydney.
17.7% of people aged 15 and over in the Darlinghurst SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% in Greater Sydney.
The darlinghurst sa2 ranks in the 98th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Darlinghurst SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (41.7%), Postgraduate (18.5%), Advanced Diploma (10.0%).
23.7% of the population in the Darlinghurst SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 3.0% in primary school, 1.8% in secondary school, 10.1% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Darlinghurst SA2 is 1211, indicating above-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 3 schools within the Darlinghurst SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 3,085 students.
The darlinghurst sa2 includes 1 primary school, 1 secondary school, 1 combined school.
Darlinghurst features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 1.7 people | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 51.7% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 6.6% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 28.7% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 3.2% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 9.1% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 5,384 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 5,817 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 39.2% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 0.5 per family | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Darlinghurst SA2 had 5,384 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 8.0% to an estimated 5,817 households today.
The average household size in the Darlinghurst SA2 is 1.7 people. This compares to 2.7 in Greater Sydney and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 39.2% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (51.7%), group households (9.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,111 family households, couples with children account for 6.6% of all households, couples without children at home 28.7%, and single parent families 3.2%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Sydney, the Darlinghurst SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 51.7% (versus 23.2% in Greater Sydney). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 39.2% compared to 72.6% in Greater Sydney. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Marriage patterns reveal 20.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 66.8% have never married. This compares to 48.3% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Sydney.
Single-person households represent 51.7% of all households in the Darlinghurst SA2, higher than the average for Greater Sydney of 23.2%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 9.1% of households, above the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Darlinghurst was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets in Australia, upon assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 43.4% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 22.4% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 77.6% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 72.5% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 56.6% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.6% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
Darlinghurst scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 22.4% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 43.4% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Darlinghurst, at 30.3% of people, although more residents (60.8%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 2.2% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Greater Sydney.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Darlinghurst are English, comprising 25.2% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Sydney's 19.0%, Australian, comprising 14.6% of the population, and Other, comprising 13.9% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: French is notably overrepresented at 1.5% of Darlinghurst (vs 0.5% across Greater Sydney), Spanish at 1.0% (vs 0.6%) and Hungarian at 0.5% (vs 0.3%).
43.4% of the Darlinghurst SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% across Greater Sydney.
22.4% of the population in the Darlinghurst SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in Greater Sydney.
0.6% of the Darlinghurst SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in Greater Sydney.
72.5% of the Darlinghurst SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in Greater Sydney.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Darlinghurst features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 63.2% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 17.1% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 79.1% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,964 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 95th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 19.7% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 19.7% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $550 | 2021 Census, weekly | 94th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 24.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 77th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 30.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 89th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 1.1 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
In the Darlinghurst SA2, 17.1% of homes are owned outright, 19.7% are owned with a mortgage, and 63.2% are rented.
According to the latest data, 0.9% of dwellings in the Darlinghurst SA2 are houses.
In the Darlinghurst SA2, 79.1% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 19.7% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Darlinghurst SA2 stands at 17.1%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Darlinghurst SA2 is $2,964, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Darlinghurst SA2 is $2,090, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Darlinghurst SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 30.0% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 24.1% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Darlinghurst SA2 is 1.1, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Darlinghurst SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 30.0% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% in Greater Sydney), while renters spend 24.1% of income on rent (vs 22.6% in Greater Sydney).
The dwelling mix in the Darlinghurst SA2 consists of 0.9% detached houses, 19.7% semi-detached dwellings, 79.1% apartments, and 0.3% other dwelling types.
Housing in Darlinghurst consumes approximately 21.2% of median household income ($9,868 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Darlinghurst show attached dwellings contributing 100% of approvals compared to 99% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 0% of applications versus 1% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Darlinghurst is experiencing exceptional growth in housing density, ranking in the top 10% nationally.
The level of general health in Darlinghurst is notably higher than the national average with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 80.9% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 98th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 74.1% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 78.1% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.7% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
Around 80.9% of people in the Darlinghurst SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.8% in Greater Sydney.
In the Darlinghurst SA2, 2.3% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
7.1% of people in the Darlinghurst SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.4% of the population across Greater Sydney is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 1.9% of the Darlinghurst SA2 population, while in Greater Sydney, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.5% of people in the Darlinghurst SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Sydney,3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Darlinghurst SA2, 80.9% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Sydney sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 59.8%.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 98 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 98th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 42 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 36th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 8,458 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 91st percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 273 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 15 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 0.2 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 61.1% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 42 public transport stops within the Darlinghurst SA2.
The Darlinghurst SA2 has 8,458 weekly trips across 15 routes, averaging 1,208 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 92 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest pharmacy is 200 m away and the nearest GP 203 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 42 stops nearby, 8,458 weekly trips, access rating 98 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 100 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 200 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 203 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 203 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 219 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest child care | 243 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 278 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 287 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 332 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 445 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 498 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 546 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There is 1 long day care centre with 60 places in Darlinghurst, about 3.6 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Darlinghurst is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Darlinghurst.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Darlinghurst is exceptionally low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Darlinghurst has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 30% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Darlinghurst's established property market has recorded 317 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 95% residential and 5% commercial transactions.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Darlinghurst reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Darlinghurst's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 88% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
The labour market in Darlinghurst demonstrates typical performance when compared to similar areas across Australia.
Darlinghurst demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 2% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
Darlinghurst features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
Darlinghurst was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets in Australia, upon assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Darlinghurst features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Sydney.
The level of general health in Darlinghurst is notably higher than the national average with both young and old age cohorts seeing low prevalence of common health conditions.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Darlinghurst has an estimated 11,469 residents, up 8.0% since the 2021 Census, with 13 projects tracked in Darlinghurst.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Sources: ABS Census 2021, ABS estimated resident population, ATO taxation statistics, state rental bonds and property sales records where published, and AreaSearch analysis for Darlinghurst.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Oct 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Oct 2026. Housing and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (117031329). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Oct 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Darlinghurst from the 2021 Census, ATO taxpayer data and AreaSearch estimates and analysis. Each topic has its own table of key figures beside the section it belongs to, and each row names its source and date. The percentile compares Darlinghurst with every neighbourhood-sized area across Australia (ABS SA2 areas): a higher percentile means more of that measure than most, not necessarily better.
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
