Area profile · Greater Sydney
Emu Plains - Leonay has an estimated 13,968 residents, up 0.4% since the 2021 Census, with 8 projects tracked in Emu Plains - Leonay.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Emu Plains - Leonay Statistical Area (Lv2) sits 53 kilometres west-northwest of the Sydney CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at around 13,968 as of Aug 2026, reflecting minimal change since the 2021 Census count of 13,914 people. This assessment draws on the latest ABS estimated resident population outputs and on new addresses added since the Census, which together reveal no significant movements.
Residents display a fairly standard age profile, with a median age of 40, and the area enjoys high income levels. Population growth has been limited, and sales activity is relatively low given the size of the population. Framed by the majestic Blue Mountains, the location offers a picturesque setting for everyday life, with walking trails, parks and playing fields drawing outdoor enthusiasts. The Nepean River is a prominent feature, popular for picnicking, fishing and boating.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 14,466 in 2001 and 13,936 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 13,968 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 15 to 24, 13.9%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 31.4%.
Emu Plains - Leonay ranks in the 84th percentile nationally for income and the 77th for employment drivers.
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 Emu Plains - Leonay is $672 a week, up 5.2% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 15% below Greater Sydney. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 2.9%.
15% below Greater Sydney on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $504 in 2017, $728 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $420 in 2017, $619 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 57 Old Bathurst Road, Emu Heights NSW 2750 | $500,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 9 Walton Place, Emu Plains NSW 2750 | $1,260,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 4 Outlook Avenue, Emu Heights NSW 2750 | $821,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 44 Sheppard Road, Emu Plains NSW 2750 | $1,235,000 | 23 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 15 Dartmoor Circuit, Emu Heights NSW 2750 | $1,380,000 | 22 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 3 Blackbutt Place, Leonay NSW 2750 | $1,250,000 | 21 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 46 Koloona Drive, Emu Plains NSW 2750 | $1,085,000 | 21 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 15 Grey Street, Emu Plains NSW 2750 | $1,825,000 | 17 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 8 Sheppard Road, Emu Plains NSW 2750 | $1,260,000 | 7 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 44 Gwandalan Street, Emu Plains NSW 2750 | $1,350,000 | 4 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 40 residential sales recorded since 17 Jun 2026 (the latest settled 1 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 40, houses and units together, was $1,210,000 (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 | $672 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +5.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 2.9% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $1.30m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $871k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $1,210,000 | Median of the 40 most recent residential sales, settled 17 Jun 2026 to 1 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $728 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +5.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $619 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +2.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.0% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 3.6% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Penrith | $636 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Penrith, over 12 months | +3.4% | 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 156 tracked applications: 93 approved, 34 under assessment, 29 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Emu Plains - Leonay, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 8 projects in Emu Plains - Leonay (2 under construction) and 111 more in the surrounding area.
Stage 2 redevelopment by Uniting NSW.ACT to deliver 147 independent living apartments across 5 buildings in Emu Plains, complementing the…
16.29 hectare industrial subdivision at 158-164 Old Bathurst Road, Emu Plains, branded as Emu Plains Industry Centre (EPIC).
Winter Sports World features a ski slope, hotel, and recreational facilities, planned for Jamisontown, generating significant economic…
NSW Government rail infrastructure upgrades at Emu Plains Station as part of Mariyung and Regional Rail fleet projects.
NSW Government Bus Priority Infrastructure Program improvements to four bus stops in Emu Plains along Great Western Highway.
The Penrith Stadium Redevelopment is a 309 million dollar NSW Government project transforming the home ground of the Penrith Panthers into…
A masterplanned riverside community featuring townhouses and apartments directly opposite Regatta Park and the Nepean River, fully…
A more than $1 billion expansion of Nepean Hospital at Kingswood in Western Sydney, delivered in two stages by Health Infrastructure NSW…
A $200 million luxury mixed-use development by James Place Group featuring 173 architecturally crafted homes including apartments, terrace…
Community recreational destination upgrade at Nepean River in Emu Plains.
Residential development providing modern apartments close to Penrith city centre with access to shopping, dining and transport options.
A small infill land subdivision of 28 residential lots in an elevated position along Wedmore Road in Emu Heights, overlooking the Nepean…
Images marked AI impression are illustrative only and not photographs of the project; follow the project links for actual imagery. Original imagery? Contact us.
Estimated completion year of the 56 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 4, 2026 14, 2027 16, 2028 9, 2029 3, 2030 4, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 3, 2036 3. 22 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 156 substantial development applications lodged in and around Emu Plains - Leonay over the past 5 years, 102 in the last 12 months; 34 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 2, 2022 14, 2023 19, 2024 7, 2025 14, 2026 (to Oct) 100.
Key application 1-3 Emerald Street, Emu Plains Aged Care | $101m | 147 dwellings Approved
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 156 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 102 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 4.7 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 59th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 65 | ABS building approvals | 68th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 93 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 34 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 include: Uniting Edinglassie Village Redevelopment (Construction); Emu Plains Industry Centre (EPIC) - Akura Development (Construction); Winter Sports World (Construction); Emu Plains Rail Station Upgrades (Planning); and Emu Plains Bus Stop Improvements (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 spans multiple sectors including Sports & Recreation, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Health & Medical, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 currently ranks below national averages at the 39th percentile.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Emu Plains - Leonay recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 area has seen 204 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Emu Plains - Leonay SA2's current population of 13,968 has been supported by 65 approvals on average over recent years.
The Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 has seen 4.7 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 6.2 approvals in Greater Sydney. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 263 people in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2, compared to one for every 165 in Greater Sydney.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 65, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 has seen 325 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.
Emu Plains - Leonay has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 13,968 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +0.4% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,013 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | -0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | -0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 13,914 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 54 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 13.79 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 was estimated to be approximately 13,968 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 13,936 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The emu plains - leonay sa2 has added approximately 54 people and shown a 0.39% increase from the 13,914 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 is estimated at 1,013 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of -0.4% per annum.
Population growth in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (55.9%), Natural increase (44.1%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 55.9% of overall population gains.
Emu Plains - Leonay's population is slightly older than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 40 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 20.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 18.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 25.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 47.9% | 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 | 40 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 12.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 13.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 11.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 13.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 10.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 9.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 8.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 at 40 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 40 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 40 years as at August 2026, Emu Plains - Leonay is 3 years older than the Greater Sydney 2021 Census average (37 years) and 2 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 8.0% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 11.1% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Sydney. The most over-represented age group is 75-84 year-olds (8.0% vs 5.3%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 18.1% of the population in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 20.1% of the population in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 as at August 2026.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 84% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $70,118 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 84th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $81,456 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,122 | 2021 Census, weekly | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $934 | 2021 Census, weekly | 71st percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 32.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,470 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 19.0% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 is approximately $74,592. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $70,118.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 is approximately $86,653. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $81,456.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 is approximately $74,592 compared to $67,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $70,118 and $63,183 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 is approximately $86,653 compared to $92,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $81,456 and $86,684 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2's households (~31.4% / 1,554 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 31.4% 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 Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 is $2,122/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 is $2,470/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 is $934/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2's median income among taxpayers is $70,118, with an average of $81,456. This is very high nationally, and compares to Greater Sydney's median of $63,183 and average of $86,684. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $74,592 (median) and $86,653 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 is $7,908 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The emu plains - leonay sa2's disposable income is $7,908 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Emu Plains - Leonay demonstrate exceptional strength compared to most Australian markets.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 67.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 7,762 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 12,469 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 7,917 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 has approximately 7,762 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.0%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. The area ranks in the top 25% nationally for employment performance, indicating a robust job market.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 stands at 2.0%, which is 2.2 percentage points below Greater Sydney's rate of 4.2%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are construction (14.0% of employment), health care & social assistance (13.5%), and education & training (11.9%). Other significant employers include public administration & safety and retail trade.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Greater Sydney saw employment increased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 is 67.7%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Greater Sydney average of 68.9%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Sydney.
The emu plains - leonay sa2 shows notable specialisation in construction, which employs 14.0% of the local workforce compared to 8.6% across Greater Sydney. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The emu plains - leonay sa2's employment market shows strong performance nationally, ranking in the top 25% of areas assessed by AreaSearch. This indicates robust employment conditions and economic vitality compared to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 3.8% decline, ranking 32nd out of 37 regions nationally.
Educational attainment in Emu Plains - Leonay sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 14.5% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 5.2% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 22.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 28.2% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.2% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 38.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 28.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 4.0% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 10.0% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 8.5% | 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
22.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in Greater Sydney.
38.6% of people aged 15 and over in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% in Greater Sydney.
The emu plains - leonay sa2 ranks in the 52th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 are: Certificate (28.2%), Bachelor Degree (14.5%), Advanced Diploma (11.2%).
28.7% of the population in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 10.0% in primary school, 8.5% in secondary school, 4.0% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 is 1020, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 7 schools within the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,661 students.
The emu plains - leonay sa2 includes 4 primary schools, 3 secondary schools.
Emu Plains - Leonay features high concentrations of couples with children and family households but relatively few group households, with an average household size in line with Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.7 people | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 20.8% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 38.2% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 26.7% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 12.0% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 1.4% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 4,954 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 4,973 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 77.6% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.8 per family | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 had 4,954 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 4,973 households today.
The average household size in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 is 2.7 people. This compares to 2.7 in Greater Sydney and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 77.6% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (20.8%), group households (1.4%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 3,844 family households, couples with children account for 38.2% of all households, couples without children at home 26.7%, and single parent families 12.0%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Sydney, the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 have an average of 1.8 children, slightly above the Greater Sydney average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 51.0% of the adult population are currently married, while 31.8% have never married. This compares to 48.3% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Sydney.
Single-person households represent 20.8% of all households in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2, similar to 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 1.4% of households, below the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Emu Plains - Leonay ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 15.5% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 6.8% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 93.2% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 92.6% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 84.5% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 2.5% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
Emu Plains - Leonay was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 84.5% of its population born in Australia, 92.6% being citizens, and 93.2% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Emu Plains - Leonay was found to be Christianity, which makes up 62.4% of people in Emu Plains - Leonay. This compares to 49.2% across Greater Sydney.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Emu Plains - Leonay are Australian, comprising 29.4% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Sydney's 17.8%, English, comprising 27.9% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Sydney's 19.0%, and Irish, comprising 9.8% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Maltese is notably overrepresented at 1.6% of Emu Plains - Leonay (vs 1.0% across Greater Sydney), Polish at 0.9% (vs 0.6%) and Dutch at 1.6% (vs 0.7%).
15.5% of the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% across Greater Sydney.
6.8% of the population in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in Greater Sydney.
2.5% of the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in Greater Sydney.
92.6% of the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in Greater Sydney.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Emu Plains - Leonay is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 19.3% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 38.7% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 88.4% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,200 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 80th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 41.9% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 8.2% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $437 | 2021 Census, weekly | 76th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 20.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 49th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 23.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 48th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2, 38.7% of homes are owned outright, 41.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 19.3% are rented.
According to the latest data, 88.4% of dwellings in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 are houses.
In the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2, 1.4% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 8.2% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 stands at 38.7%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 is $2,200, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 is $1,287, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 23.9% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.6% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 23.9% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% in Greater Sydney), while renters spend 20.6% of income on rent (vs 22.6% in Greater Sydney).
The dwelling mix in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 consists of 88.4% detached houses, 8.2% semi-detached dwellings, 1.4% apartments, and 2.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Emu Plains - Leonay consumes approximately 14.0% of median household income ($9,188 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Emu Plains - Leonay show attached dwellings contributing 80% of approvals compared to 12% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 20% of applications versus 88% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Health performance in Emu Plains - Leonay is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 57.8% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 71st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 67.2% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.6% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 75.2% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.5% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
Around 57.8% of people in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.8% in Greater Sydney.
In the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2, 5.6% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
7.9% of people in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.4% of the population across Greater Sydney is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.7% of the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 population, while in Greater Sydney, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.1% of people in the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Sydney,3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2, 57.8% 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 good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 65 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 65th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 150 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 86th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 2,440 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 56th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 93 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 55 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.6 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 38.1% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 150 public transport stops within the Emu Plains - Leonay SA2.
The Emu Plains - Leonay SA2 has 2,440 weekly trips across 55 routes, averaging 348 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 143 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 442 m away and the nearest school 566 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 150 stops nearby, 2,440 weekly trips, access rating 65 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 53 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 442 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 566 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 675 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 863 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 3.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 3.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 5.5 km | 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 are 7 long day care centres with 407 places in Emu Plains - Leonay, about 1.9 children aged 0-4 per place.
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05Reports and tools
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Emu Plains - Leonay recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Emu Plains - Leonay has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 39th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Emu Plains - Leonay's resilient property market has recorded 228 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 89% residential, 10% commercial and 1% vacant land transactions.
Emu Plains - Leonay has shown very soft population growth performance across periods assessed by AreaSearch.
Emu Plains - Leonay's population is slightly older than the national pattern.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 84% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
Employment conditions in Emu Plains - Leonay demonstrate exceptional strength compared to most Australian markets.
Educational attainment in Emu Plains - Leonay sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
Emu Plains - Leonay features high concentrations of couples with children and family households but relatively few group households, with an average household size in line with Greater Sydney.
Emu Plains - Leonay ranks below the Australian average when compared to other local markets across a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Emu Plains - Leonay is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Emu Plains - Leonay is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be in line with the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Emu Plains - Leonay has an estimated 13,968 residents, up 0.4% since the 2021 Census, with 8 projects tracked in Emu Plains - Leonay.
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 Emu Plains - Leonay.
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 Jun 2026. Housing, households 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 (124031459). 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 (Jun 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, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Emu Plains - Leonay 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 Emu Plains - Leonay 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.
