Area profile · Greater Sydney
Hornsby - East has an estimated 12,825 residents, up 7.4% since the 2021 Census, with 8 projects tracked in Hornsby - East.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Situated 20 kilometres north-northwest from Sydney CBD, the Hornsby - East Statistical Area (Lv2) is a picturesque and serene community defined by lush greenery, scenic parklands, and a rich cultural heritage. Renowned for its top-rated schools, well-developed shopping centres, and diverse recreational amenities, the locality provides a family-friendly environment anchored by a strong civic spirit. AreaSearch estimates Hornsby - East's population at approximately 12,825 as of August 2026, reflecting an increase of 882 people (7.4%) since the 2021 Census recorded 11,943 people. This demographic expansion is derived from the ABS estimated resident population (ERP) figure of 12,798 recorded as of June 2025, alongside 109 validated new addresses registered since the Census date.
Demographically, the area is characterised by an above-average proportion of young adults and working-age residents, accompanied by exceptional educational attainment, strong school performance, and high cultural diversity driven by an elevated overseas-born population.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Situated 20 kilometres north-northwest from Sydney CBD, the Hornsby - East Statistical Area (Lv2) is a picturesque and serene community defined by lush greenery, scenic parklands, and a rich cultural heritage. Renowned for its top-rated schools, well-developed shopping centres, and diverse recreational amenities, the locality provides a family-friendly environment anchored by a strong civic spirit. AreaSearch estimates Hornsby - East's population at approximately 12,825 as of August 2026, reflecting an increase of 882 people (7.4%) since the 2021 Census recorded 11,943 people. This demographic expansion is derived from the ABS estimated resident population (ERP) figure of 12,798 recorded as of June 2025, alongside 109 validated new addresses registered since the Census date.
Demographically, the area is characterised by an above-average proportion of young adults and working-age residents, accompanied by exceptional educational attainment, strong school performance, and high cultural diversity driven by an elevated overseas-born population.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 8,886 in 2001 and 12,798 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 12,825 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 20.9%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 36.9%.
Hornsby - East ranks in the 99th percentile nationally for education and the 96th for cultural diversity.
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 Hornsby - East is $671 a week, up 6.3% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 15% below Greater Sydney. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 4.8%.
15% below Greater Sydney on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $616 in 2017, $784 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $482 in 2017, $648 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20/5 Belair Close, Hornsby NSW 2077 | $750,000 | 29 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 95/121 Pacific Highway, Hornsby NSW 2077 | $700,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 1010/135 Pacific Highway, Hornsby NSW 2077 | $555,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 7/17 Edgeworth David Avenue, Hornsby NSW 2077 | $480,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 20/9 Linda Street, Hornsby NSW 2077 | $820,000 | 24 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 106/107 Pacific Highway, Hornsby NSW 2077 | $640,000 | 24 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 9/4 Bellbrook Avenue, Hornsby NSW 2077 | $910,000 | 23 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 1309/88 George Street, Hornsby NSW 2077 | $845,000 | 21 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 76/2 Pound Road, Hornsby NSW 2077 | $628,000 | 21 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 75/4 Pound Road, Hornsby NSW 2077 | $710,000 | 16 Sep 2026 | Unit |
The 10 most recent of the 48 residential sales recorded since 21 Jul 2026 (the latest settled 29 Sep 2026), newest first. The median of these 48, houses and units together, was $690,000 (a different set from the medians above). Source: NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch, to September 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 | $671 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +6.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 4.8% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $1.90m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $710k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $690,000 | Median of the 48 most recent residential sales, settled 21 Jul 2026 to 29 Sep 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $784 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +7.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $648 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +5.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 2.2% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 4.7% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Hornsby | $732 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Hornsby, over 12 months | +8.6% | 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 362 tracked applications: 312 approved, 11 under assessment, 39 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Hornsby - East, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 8 projects in Hornsby - East and 112 more in the surrounding area.
A major mixed-use redevelopment of Westfield Hornsby within the NSW Government's Transport Oriented Development (TOD) Accelerated Precinct. Following finalised state-led rezoning, the project allows for approximately 6,000 new dwellings across multiple high-rise residential towers (reaching up to 53 storeys), alongside expanded retail, commercial spaces…
DA-approved mixed-use project within Hornsby town centre: demolition of existing structures and construction of a 13-14 storey building comprising approx. 76 residential units above three levels of commercial floorspace, with recent Section 4.55 modifications lodged in 2025.
Hornsby Park is the transformation of the former Hornsby Quarry, a 60-hectare site on Quarry Road in Hornsby, into a regional bush parkland, led by Hornsby Shire Council. Stage 1 opened in late March 2026, including the Crusher Plant Precinct, the Southern Lookout and upgraded Heritage Steps.
NSW Government $300 million investment in new clinical services building, expanded Emergency Department, renal dialysis unit, chemotherapy unit, robotic pharmacy, and rooftop helipad. First public hospital in NSW with robotic pharmacy.
Early-stage NSW Government proposal to address extreme northbound congestion on the M1 Pacific Motorway between the NorthConnex interchange at Wahroonga and Mount Colah. The motorway carries more than 90,000 light and heavy vehicle movements a day between the Hunter, Central Coast and Sydney.
Transformation of the 60-hectare former Hornsby Quarry site into a major regional parkland. The project is being delivered in stages, with the Crusher Plant Precinct, Southern Lookout, and Heritage Steps opening in March 2026.
Residential apartment development at 91 Jersey Street North, Hornsby as part of the town centre residential growth strategy. Mixed-use building with ground floor commercial and upper level apartments.
Residential apartment development at 100-106 George Street, Hornsby within the Transport Oriented Development area. Contemporary design with mixed-use ground floor and residential upper levels.
Alkira Asquith is a boutique residential development situated along the Pacific Highway in Asquith. The project comprises 29 residences, consisting of 24 multi-level townhouses with private landscaped courtyards and 5 apartments with basement parking. The site is located in close proximity to Asquith railway station and Hornsby CBD.
Eastwood Gardens (Waitara) is a proposed three-tower residential apartment project opposite Waitara Station, originally promoted by Toplace with around 300 dwellings, retail space and a landscaped podium over basement parking.:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} As at late 2025, the existing low-rise apartments at 5 Park Avenue and 19-21 Waitara Avenue…
Renewal and modernisation of community sports amenities at Asquith Oval by Hornsby Shire Council. The project scope includes a new public toilet building, upgraded change rooms, dedicated referee and groundsman facilities, storage shed, accessible ramps, footpaths, and landscaping.
Mixed-use twin tower development comprising approximately 200 apartments across Tower A (9 storeys) and Tower B (19 storeys), set above a podium of retail and commercial floorspace totalling approximately 4,793 square metres.
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 62 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 2, 2026 22, 2027 17, 2028 12, 2029 4, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 1, 2035 1, 2036 1. 18 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 362 substantial development applications lodged in and around Hornsby - East over the past 5 years, 65 in the last 12 months; 11 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 13, 2022 74, 2023 78, 2024 72, 2025 75, 2026 (to Oct) 50.
Key application 228-234 Pacific Highway, Hornsby Aged Care | $42m | 83 dwellings | 12 storeys Approved
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 362 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 65 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 1.7 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 22 | ABS building approvals | 34th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 312 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 11 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Hornsby - East SA2 include: Hornsby Town Centre Masterplan and TOD Rezoning (Approved); Linea Apartments (94-98 George Street) (Approved); Westfield Hornsby Transport Oriented Development (Approved); Hornsby Town Centre Masterplan & TOD Precinct Strategy (Planning); and Hornsby Park (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Hornsby - East SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Communities, and Residential Development, among others.
With an infrastructure score in the top 40%, the Hornsby - East SA2 demonstrates above-average development activity compared to national benchmarks.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees a low level of activity in Hornsby - East, placing the area among the bottom 23% of areas assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Hornsby - East SA2 area has seen 10 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Hornsby - East SA2's current population of 12,825 has been supported by 22 approvals on average over recent years.
The Hornsby - East SA2 has seen 1.7 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 3963 people in the Hornsby - East SA2, compared to one for every 165 in Greater Sydney.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Hornsby - East SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 22, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the Hornsby - East SA2 has grown by approximately 252 people, while 108 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.3 people added for each new dwelling approval. This indicates solid population growth supported by housing development activity.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Hornsby - East reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 12,825 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +7.4% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 55th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 4,993 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 94th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 11,943 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 882 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 2.57 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Hornsby - East SA2 was estimated to be approximately 12,825 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 12,798 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The hornsby - east sa2 has added approximately 882 people and shown a 7.39% increase from the 11,943 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Hornsby - East SA2 is estimated at 4,990 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Hornsby - East SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.7% per annum.
Population growth in the Hornsby - East SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (85.3%), Natural increase (14.7%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 85.3% of overall population gains.
Hornsby - East's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 36 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 27th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 14.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 13.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 31.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 61.4% | 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 | 36 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 | 8.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 20.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 17.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 10.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 8.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 4.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Hornsby - East SA2 at 36 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 36 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 36 years as at August 2026, Hornsby - East is comparable to the Greater Sydney 2021 Census average (37 years) and 2 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Hornsby - East SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 20.9% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Hornsby - East SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 8.7% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the Hornsby - East SA2 is broadly in line with Greater Sydney.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 13.5% of the population in the Hornsby - East SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 14.1% of the population in the Hornsby - East SA2 as at August 2026.
Income analysis reveals strong economic positioning, with the area outperforming 65% of locations assessed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $64,420 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 71st percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $80,834 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,817 | 2021 Census, weekly | 54th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $893 | 2021 Census, weekly | 65th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 22.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,151 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 20.3% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Hornsby - East SA2 is approximately $68,530. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $64,420.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Hornsby - East SA2 is approximately $85,991. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $80,834.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Hornsby - East SA2 is approximately $68,530 compared to $67,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $64,420 and $63,183 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Hornsby - East SA2 is approximately $85,991 compared to $92,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $80,834 and $86,684 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Hornsby - East SA2's households (~36.9% / 1,830 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Hornsby - East SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 36.9% 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 Hornsby - East SA2 is $1,817/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Hornsby - East SA2 is $2,151/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Hornsby - East SA2 is $893/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the Hornsby - East SA2 is well above average nationally, with the median assessed at $64,420 while the average income stands at $80,834. This contrasts to Greater Sydney's figures of a median income of $63,183 and an average income of $86,684. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $68,530 (median) and $85,991 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Hornsby - East SA2 is $6,243 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The hornsby - east sa2's disposable income is $6,243 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Hornsby - East has seen below average employment performance when compared to national benchmarks.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 5.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 70.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 7,338 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 14,407 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 7,797 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Hornsby - East SA2 has approximately 7,338 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 5.9%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Hornsby - East SA2 stands at 5.9%, which is 1.7 percentage points above Greater Sydney's rate of 4.2%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Hornsby - East SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (20.2% of employment), professional & technical (13.9%), and retail trade (10.6%). Other significant employers include finance & insurance and education & training.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Hornsby - East 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 Hornsby - East SA2 is 70.3%, 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 hornsby - east sa2 shows notable specialisation in health care & social assistance, which employs 20.2% of the local workforce compared to 14.1% across Greater Sydney. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The hornsby - east sa2's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 3.8% decline, ranking 32nd out of 37 regions nationally.
Hornsby - East demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 1% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 33.3% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 16.4% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 52.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 10.9% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.5% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.8% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 25.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 28.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 7.5% | 2021 Census | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 7.7% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 5.0% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
52.2% of people aged 15 and over in the Hornsby - East SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in Greater Sydney.
25.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Hornsby - East SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% in Greater Sydney.
The hornsby - east sa2 ranks in the 99th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Hornsby - East SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (33.3%), Postgraduate (16.4%), Advanced Diploma (11.8%).
28.9% of the population in the Hornsby - East SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 7.7% in primary school, 5.0% in secondary school, 7.5% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Hornsby - East SA2 is 1189, indicating above-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 4 schools within the Hornsby - East SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 3,538 students.
The hornsby - east sa2 includes 1 primary school, 2 secondary schools, 1 combined school.
Hornsby - East features high concentrations of group households and lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.3 people | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 30.8% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 28.4% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 24.3% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 10.1% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 4.5% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 4,954 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 5,320 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 64.5% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.0 per family | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Hornsby - East SA2 had 4,954 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 7.4% to an estimated 5,320 households today.
The average household size in the Hornsby - East SA2 is 2.3 people. This compares to 2.7 in Greater Sydney and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 64.5% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (30.8%), group households (4.5%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 3,195 family households, couples with children account for 28.4% of all households, couples without children at home 24.3%, and single parent families 10.1%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Sydney, the Hornsby - East SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 30.8% (versus 23.2% in Greater Sydney). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 64.5% compared to 72.6% in Greater Sydney. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Hornsby - East SA2 have an average of 1.0 children, slightly below the Greater Sydney average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 50.6% of the adult population are currently married, while 34.0% have never married. This compares to 48.3% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Sydney.
Single-person households represent 30.8% of all households in the Hornsby - East SA2, higher than the average for Greater Sydney of 23.2%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 4.5% of households, slightly above the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%.
Hornsby - East is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 61.7% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 62.4% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 37.6% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 67.1% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 38.3% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.3% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
Hornsby - East is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country, with 62.4% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 61.7% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Hornsby - East, at 35.2% of people, although more residents (38.3%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Hinduism, which comprises 15.6% of the population, substantially higher than the Greater Sydney average of 5.2%.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Hornsby - East are Other, comprising 23.2% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Sydney's 16.0%, Chinese, comprising 19.9% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Sydney's 8.4%, and English, comprising 13.0% of the population, which is notably lower than Greater Sydney's 19.0%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Korean is notably overrepresented at 3.6% of Hornsby - East (vs 1.1% across Greater Sydney), Russian at 1.0% (vs 0.4%) and Filipino at 4.1% (vs 2.0%).
61.7% of the Hornsby - East SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% across Greater Sydney.
62.4% of the population in the Hornsby - East SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in Greater Sydney.
0.3% of the Hornsby - East SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in Greater Sydney.
67.1% of the Hornsby - East SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in Greater Sydney.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Hornsby - East features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 53.8% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 17.6% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 85.2% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,115 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 28.6% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 2.6% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $440 | 2021 Census, weekly | 77th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 24.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 77th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 26.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 73rd percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 1.1 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
In the Hornsby - East SA2, 17.6% of homes are owned outright, 28.6% are owned with a mortgage, and 53.8% are rented.
According to the latest data, 12.0% of dwellings in the Hornsby - East SA2 are houses.
In the Hornsby - East SA2, 85.2% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 2.6% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Hornsby - East SA2 stands at 17.6%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Hornsby - East SA2 is $2,115, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Hornsby - East SA2 is $1,630, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Hornsby - East SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 26.9% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 24.2% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Hornsby - East SA2 is 1.1, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Hornsby - East SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 26.9% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% in Greater Sydney), while renters spend 24.2% of income on rent (vs 22.6% in Greater Sydney).
The dwelling mix in the Hornsby - East SA2 consists of 12.0% detached houses, 2.6% semi-detached dwellings, 85.2% apartments, and 0.1% other dwelling types.
Housing in Hornsby - East consumes approximately 20.7% of median household income ($7,868 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Hornsby - East show attached dwellings contributing 40% of approvals compared to 88% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 60% of applications versus 12% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Hornsby - East's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 57.1% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 68th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 78.8% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.3% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 83.3% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.8% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
Around 57.1% of people in the Hornsby - East SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.8% in Greater Sydney.
In the Hornsby - East SA2, 4.3% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
5.5% of people in the Hornsby - East SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.4% of the population across Greater Sydney is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.0% of the Hornsby - East SA2 population, while in Greater Sydney, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.2% of people in the Hornsby - East SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Sydney,3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Hornsby - East SA2, 57.1% 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 | 75 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 75th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 42 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 34th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 4,172 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 71st percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 337 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 41 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 0.5 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 42.3% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 42 public transport stops within the Hornsby - East SA2.
The Hornsby - East SA2 has 4,172 weekly trips across 41 routes, averaging 596 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 208 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 237 m away and the nearest GP 295 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 42 stops nearby, 4,172 weekly trips, access rating 75 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 92 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 237 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 295 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 349 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 356 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest fitness centre | 391 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 480 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 515 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 522 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 579 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 709 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 998 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 12 long day care centres with 624 places in Hornsby - East, about 1.0 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 Hornsby - East 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 Hornsby - East.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees a low level of activity in Hornsby - East, placing the area among the bottom 23% of areas assessed nationally.
Hornsby - East has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 40% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Hornsby - East's affordable property market has recorded 355 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 88% residential, 11% commercial and 1% vacant land transactions.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Hornsby - East reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Hornsby - East's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
Income analysis reveals strong economic positioning, with the area outperforming 65% of locations assessed nationally by AreaSearch.
Hornsby - East has seen below average employment performance when compared to national benchmarks.
Hornsby - East demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 1% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
Hornsby - East features high concentrations of group households and lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
Hornsby - East is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Hornsby - East features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Sydney.
Hornsby - East's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
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 above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Hornsby - East has an estimated 12,825 residents, up 7.4% since the 2021 Census, with 8 projects tracked in Hornsby - East.
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 Hornsby - East.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Sep 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Oct 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 (121021577). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP). SA2 areas can differ materially from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, even when they share similar names, because they are defined for different purposes and often use different geographic boundaries.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Oct 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, 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 Hornsby - East 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 Hornsby - East 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.
