Area profile · Greater Sydney
Heathcote - Waterfall has an estimated 6,728 residents, up 0.8% since the 2021 Census, with 94 projects tracked in the area around Heathcote - Waterfall.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Heathcote - Waterfall Statistical Area (Lv2) lies 31 kilometres southwest from Sydney CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 6,728 as of Aug 2026, compared with 6,673 people at the 2021 Census, indicating minimal change based on the latest ABS ERP and validated new addresses added since the Census. The area has limited population expansion patterns, alongside a high proportion of middle-aged and elderly residents, including a notable proportion aged 85 and over and elevated representation of people aged 45 to 54.
The area is very affluent, with above-average median household income and strong mortgage holder representation. Significant infrastructure and major project spending is planned, which should support performance and demand. The area is known for its picturesque natural setting, with surrounding bushland, access to Royal National Park, and waterfalls including Kellys Falls and Uloola Falls, as well as a welcoming, tight-knit community.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Heathcote - Waterfall Statistical Area (Lv2) lies 31 kilometres southwest from Sydney CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 6,728 as of Aug 2026, compared with 6,673 people at the 2021 Census, indicating minimal change based on the latest ABS ERP and validated new addresses added since the Census. The area has limited population expansion patterns, alongside a high proportion of middle-aged and elderly residents, including a notable proportion aged 85 and over and elevated representation of people aged 45 to 54.
The area is very affluent, with above-average median household income and strong mortgage holder representation. Significant infrastructure and major project spending is planned, which should support performance and demand. The area is known for its picturesque natural setting, with surrounding bushland, access to Royal National Park, and waterfalls including Kellys Falls and Uloola Falls, as well as a welcoming, tight-knit community.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 6,691 in 2001 and 6,720 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 6,728 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 45 to 54, 14%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 30%.
Heathcote - Waterfall ranks in the 86th percentile nationally for income and the 80th 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 Heathcote - Waterfall is $880 a week, up 13.6% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 12% above Greater Sydney. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.4%.
12% above Greater Sydney on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses: $682 in 2017, $962 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 118 Wilson Parade, Heathcote NSW 2233 | $1,460,000 | 20 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 11 Parkes Street, Heathcote NSW 2233 | $1,430,000 | 14 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 11/1437 Princes Highway, Heathcote NSW 2233 | $990,000 | 9 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 120/11 Veno Street, Heathcote NSW 2233 | $930,000 | 9 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 9 Martin Street, Heathcote NSW 2233 | $1,312,500 | 7 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 4/1317 Princes Highway, Heathcote NSW 2233 | $925,000 | 23 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 2/1337 Princes Highway, Heathcote NSW 2233 | $770,000 | 18 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 18 Viola Place, Heathcote NSW 2233 | $1,507,000 | 7 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 2/14 Rosebery Street, Heathcote NSW 2233 | $930,000 | 7 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 30 Boronia Grove, Heathcote NSW 2233 | $1,331,250 | 3 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 48 residential sales recorded since 9 Apr 2026 (the latest settled 20 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 48, houses and units together, was $1,378,000 (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 | $880 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +13.6% | 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 | $1.48m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $931k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $1,378,000 | Median of the 48 most recent residential sales, settled 9 Apr 2026 to 20 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $962 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +8.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $702 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +9.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.3% | 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, Sydney - Sutherland | $838 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Sydney - Sutherland, over 12 months | +7.3% | 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 51 tracked applications: 9 approved, 12 under assessment, 30 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 94 projects in and around Heathcote - Waterfall, 14 of them under construction.
Redevelopment of former pub site into 168 apartments including 25 affordable units, with retail and commercial spaces.
The project is part of the More Trains, More Services program and includes the installation of a new retaining wall to widen the rail corridor, extension of the island platform to accommodate longer intercity trains, new stabling yard, and realignment of tracks and overhead wiring.
Early works package delivered near Waterfall Station to prepare for the Waterfall Stabling Yard and platform extension under the More Trains, More Services program.
Design and construct Easy Access Upgrade to Waterfall Station, delivering a new station entry with level access, a lift from entry to platform, a platform extension to form a lift waiting area, new canopies, accessible toilets, upgraded platform for level access, interchange improvements and expanded lighting/CCTV.
A boutique development featuring 64 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments with modern amenities, designed to blend with the natural surroundings, offering views of the city, national park, or district. The project has experienced delays due to developer disputes and construction issues, and is approaching completion following receivership appointment.
A $4 million refurbishment of the Woolworths-anchored Engadine Central Shopping Centre. The project involved a comprehensive aesthetic and functional upgrade, including modernised external facades, upgraded entry points, new internal flooring and pathways, improved signage, and refreshed landscaping to revitalise the local retail hub.
The upgrade includes a new multipurpose hall with a multi-use sports court, stage, amenities, and storage facilities for sports and performances. The project was completed in June 2024.
Completed development consisting of 6 townhouses in a prime location near shops, transport, and schools.
Approved development for 21 townhouses (including 5 affordable rental dwellings) over a single level basement, delivered on the corner of Old Princes Highway and Anzac Avenue.
Land exchange between Sutherland Shire Council and Engadine Tavern Project Pty Ltd to enlarge Engadine Town Park by approximately 172m2, including a $125,000 contribution for park embellishment.
A commercial and residential development featuring 115 spacious one, two, and three-bedroom apartments with quality finishes, open-plan living spaces, and views of the CBD and surrounding areas, located in the heart of Engadine Village with access to Royal National Park.
Construction of new 6-metre-wide bridge upstream of existing heritage Heathcote Road Bridge. New bridge carries westbound traffic while existing bridge carries eastbound traffic, improving safety and traffic flow.
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 47 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 3, 2026 10, 2027 21, 2028 5, 2029 4, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 1, 2035 1. 7 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 51 substantial development applications lodged in and around Heathcote - Waterfall over the past 5 years, 38 in the last 12 months; 12 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2022 (part year) 3, 2023 5, 2024 3, 2025 2, 2026 (to Nov) 38.
Key application 1323-1329 Princes Highway, Heathcote Retail | $71m | 168 dwellings | 6 storeys
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 51 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 38 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 3.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 45th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 23 | ABS building approvals | 35th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 9 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 12 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 include: Hermitage Apartments (Construction); Engadine Central Shopping Centre Redevelopment (Completed); Waratah Road Townhouses (Completed); Engadine High School Upgrade (Completed); and Heathcote Road Bridge Widening Project (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Residential Development, and Retail, among others.
With an infrastructure score in the top 30%, the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 demonstrates above-average development activity compared to national benchmarks.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees a low level of activity in Heathcote - Waterfall, placing the area among the bottom 15% of areas assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 area has seen 19 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Heathcote - Waterfall SA2's current population of 6,728 has been supported by 23 approvals on average over recent years.
The Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 has seen 3.4 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 759 people in the Heathcote - Waterfall 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 Heathcote - Waterfall SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 23, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 has seen 115 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.
Heathcote - Waterfall is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 6,728 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +0.8% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 244 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 35th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | 0.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 6,673 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 55 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | 0.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 27.62 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 was estimated to be approximately 6,728 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 6,720 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The heathcote - waterfall sa2 has added approximately 55 people and shown a 0.82% increase from the 6,673 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 is estimated at 244 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.1% per annum.
Population growth in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (100.0%), Natural increase (0.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 100.0% of overall population gains.
Heathcote - Waterfall's median age exceeds the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 42 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 65th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 20.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 18.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 22.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 47.8% | 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 | 42 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 13.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 13.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 8.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 13.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 14.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 11.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 9.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 6.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 at 42 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 42 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 42 years as at August 2026, Heathcote - Waterfall is 5 years older than the Greater Sydney 2021 Census average (37 years) and 4 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 45 - 54 group, making up 14.0% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 8.8% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Sydney. The most over-represented age group is 85+ year-olds (3.9% vs 2.1%). The most under-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (8.8% vs 16.2%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 17.9% of the population in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 20.7% of the population in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 as at August 2026.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 86% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $69,442 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $83,297 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,239 | 2021 Census, weekly | 80th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $949 | 2021 Census, weekly | 73rd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 34.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,611 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 19.5% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 is approximately $73,872. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $69,442.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 is approximately $88,611. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $83,297.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 is approximately $73,872 compared to $67,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $69,442 and $63,183 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 is approximately $88,611 compared to $92,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $83,297 and $86,684 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2's households (~30.0% / 697 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 30.0% 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 Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 is $2,239/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 is $2,611/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 is $949/wk.
The Heathcote - Waterfall SA2's income level is well above average nationally according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Heathcote - Waterfall SA2's median income among taxpayers is $69,442 and the average income stands at $83,297, 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 $73,872 (median) and $88,611 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 is $8,269 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The heathcote - waterfall sa2's disposable income is $8,269 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Heathcote - Waterfall demonstrate strong performance, ranking among the top 27% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 70.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 3,806 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 5,615 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 3,900 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 has approximately 3,806 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.4%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 stands at 2.4%, which is 1.7 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 Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (13.7% of employment), construction (11.9%), and education & training (11.5%). Other significant employers include professional & technical and retail trade.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Heathcote - Waterfall 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 Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 is 70.2%, 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%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Sydney.
The heathcote - waterfall sa2 shows notable specialisation in construction, which employs 11.9% of the local workforce compared to 8.6% across Greater Sydney. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The heathcote - waterfall 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.
The educational profile of Heathcote - Waterfall ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 15.9% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 5.5% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 24.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 29.6% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.0% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 12.3% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 33.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 29.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 4.1% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 10.4% | 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 8.3% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
24.4% of people aged 15 and over in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in Greater Sydney.
33.9% of people aged 15 and over in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% in Greater Sydney.
The heathcote - waterfall sa2 ranks in the 68th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 are: Certificate (29.6%), Bachelor Degree (15.9%), Advanced Diploma (12.3%).
29.8% of the population in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 10.4% in primary school, 8.3% in secondary school, 4.1% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 is 1034, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 4 schools within the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,095 students.
The heathcote - waterfall sa2 includes 3 primary schools, 1 secondary school.
Heathcote - Waterfall 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 | 20.9% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 39.7% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 27.6% | 2021 Census | 56th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 9.9% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 1.1% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 2,325 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 2,344 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 77.9% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 had 2,325 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 2,344 households today.
The average household size in the Heathcote - Waterfall 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 77.9% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (20.9%), group households (1.1%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 1,811 family households, couples with children account for 39.7% of all households, couples without children at home 27.6%, and single parent families 9.9%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Sydney, the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 77.9% (versus 72.6% in Greater Sydney). This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 have an average of 1.7 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 53.3% of the adult population are currently married, while 29.2% have never married. This compares to 48.3% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Sydney.
Single-person households represent 20.9% of all households in the Heathcote - Waterfall 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 1.1% of households, below the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Heathcote - Waterfall is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 12.3% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 5.0% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 95.0% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 93.5% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 87.7% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.1% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
Heathcote - Waterfall was found to be below average in terms of cultural diversity, with 87.7% of its population born in Australia, 93.5% being citizens, and 95.0% speaking English only at home.
The main religion in Heathcote - Waterfall was found to be Christianity, which makes up 58.6% of people in Heathcote - Waterfall. This compares to 49.2% across Greater Sydney.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Heathcote - Waterfall are Australian, comprising 31.4% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Sydney's 17.8%, English, comprising 31.2% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Sydney's 19.0%, and Irish, comprising 9.6% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Maltese is notably overrepresented at 0.7% of Heathcote - Waterfall (vs 1.0% across Greater Sydney), South African at 0.5% (vs 0.5%) and Welsh at 0.6% (vs 0.4%).
12.3% of the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% across Greater Sydney.
5.0% of the population in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in Greater Sydney.
1.1% of the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in Greater Sydney.
93.5% of the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in Greater Sydney.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Heathcote - Waterfall 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 | 12.2% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 41.7% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 76.1% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,513 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 89th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 46.1% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 10.4% | 2021 Census | 57th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $520 | 2021 Census, weekly | 91st percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 23.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 71st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 25.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 66th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2, 41.7% of homes are owned outright, 46.1% are owned with a mortgage, and 12.2% are rented.
According to the latest data, 76.1% of dwellings in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 are houses.
In the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2, 12.2% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 10.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 stands at 41.7%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 is $2,513, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 is $1,433, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 25.9% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 23.2% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 25.9% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% in Greater Sydney), while renters spend 23.2% of income on rent (vs 22.6% in Greater Sydney).
The dwelling mix in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 consists of 76.1% detached houses, 10.4% semi-detached dwellings, 12.2% apartments, and 1.3% other dwelling types.
Housing in Heathcote - Waterfall consumes approximately 14.8% of median household income ($9,695 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Heathcote - Waterfall show attached dwellings contributing 33% of approvals compared to 24% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 67% of applications versus 76% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in Heathcote - Waterfall is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across the board, though to a slightly higher degree among older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 58.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 73rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 65.3% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.0% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 75.7% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.3% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
Around 58.7% of people in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.8% in Greater Sydney.
In the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2, 5.0% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
7.5% of people in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.4% of the population across Greater Sydney is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.3% of the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 population, while in Greater Sydney, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
5.2% of people in the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Sydney,3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2, 58.7% 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 | 80 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 80th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 65 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 2,554 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 57th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 104 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 17 | 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 | 38.7% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 65 public transport stops within the Heathcote - Waterfall SA2.
The Heathcote - Waterfall SA2 has 2,554 weekly trips across 17 routes, averaging 364 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 130 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 427 m away and the nearest school 508 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 65 stops nearby, 2,554 weekly trips, access rating 80 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 14 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 14th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 427 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 508 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 2.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 2.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 7.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 11.5 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 is 1 long day care centre with 56 places in Heathcote - Waterfall, about 5.9 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 Heathcote - Waterfall 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 Heathcote - Waterfall.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees a low level of activity in Heathcote - Waterfall, placing the area among the bottom 15% of areas assessed nationally.
Heathcote - Waterfall has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 21% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Heathcote - Waterfall's established property market has recorded 88 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 97% residential and 3% commercial transactions.
Heathcote - Waterfall is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
Heathcote - Waterfall's median age exceeds the national pattern.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 86% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
Employment conditions in Heathcote - Waterfall demonstrate strong performance, ranking among the top 27% of areas assessed nationally.
The educational profile of Heathcote - Waterfall ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Heathcote - Waterfall 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.
Heathcote - Waterfall is considerably less culturally diverse than average when assessed alongside AreaSearch's national rankings for language and cultural background related metrics.
Heathcote - Waterfall is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health performance in Heathcote - Waterfall is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across the board, though to a slightly higher degree among older age cohorts.
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 below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Heathcote - Waterfall has an estimated 6,728 residents, up 0.8% since the 2021 Census, with 94 projects tracked in the area around Heathcote - Waterfall.
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 Heathcote - Waterfall.
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 Aug 2025. 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 (128021533). 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 (Aug 2025) 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 Heathcote - Waterfall 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 Heathcote - Waterfall 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.
