Area profile · Greater Sydney
Lakemba has an estimated 18,053 residents, up 5.6% since the 2021 Census, with 6 projects tracked in Lakemba.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Lakemba Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 14 kilometres west-southwest from Sydney CBD and has an estimated population of around 18,053 as of Aug 2026. This represents an increase of 961 people (5.6%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 17,092 people. The estimate reflects the ABS estimated resident population of 17,756 as of June 2025 and 303 validated new addresses since the Census date. Lakemba combines very low relative development activity with a strong apartment presence, an above-average renting population, and notable retail trade, logistics and transport employment. Its population has a high proportion born overseas, alongside children and young adults, including many in group households and couples with children.
The area is highly culturally diverse and has lower-quartile income levels. Its population shows moderate expansion, while sales activity is relatively low compared with population size. Lakemba’s multicultural community and range of religions are reflected in its international food venues, local markets and specialty stores.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Lakemba Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 14 kilometres west-southwest from Sydney CBD and has an estimated population of around 18,053 as of Aug 2026. This represents an increase of 961 people (5.6%) since the 2021 Census, which recorded 17,092 people. The estimate reflects the ABS estimated resident population of 17,756 as of June 2025 and 303 validated new addresses since the Census date. Lakemba combines very low relative development activity with a strong apartment presence, an above-average renting population, and notable retail trade, logistics and transport employment. Its population has a high proportion born overseas, alongside children and young adults, including many in group households and couples with children.
The area is highly culturally diverse and has lower-quartile income levels. Its population shows moderate expansion, while sales activity is relatively low compared with population size. Lakemba’s multicultural community and range of religions are reflected in its international food venues, local markets and specialty stores.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 15,171 in 2001 and 17,756 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 18,053 (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, 20.1%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $800 - 1,499, 32.5%.
Lakemba ranks in the 99th percentile nationally for cultural diversity and the 92nd for amenities.
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 Lakemba is $530 a week, up 5.0% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 33% below Greater Sydney. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 4.9%.
33% below Greater Sydney on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $532 in 2017, $750 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $371 in 2017, $520 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2/58 Macdonald Street, Lakemba NSW 2195 | $520,000 | 21 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 4/72 Dennis Street, Lakemba NSW 2195 | $505,000 | 21 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 3/55 Fairmount Street, Lakemba NSW 2195 | $450,000 | 21 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 1/93 Hampden Road, Lakemba NSW 2195 | $466,000 | 19 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 58 Moreton Street, Lakemba NSW 2195 | $2,245,000 | 16 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 3/8 Croydon Street, Lakemba NSW 2195 | $630,000 | 15 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 109 Ernest Street, Lakemba NSW 2195 | $1,380,000 | 9 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 6/29 Macdonald Street, Lakemba NSW 2195 | $648,000 | 7 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 5/73 Yangoora Road, Lakemba NSW 2195 | $602,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 98 Lakemba Street, Lakemba NSW 2195 | $1,000,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 48 residential sales recorded since 17 Jul 2026 (the latest settled 21 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 48, houses and units together, was $592,500 (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 | $530 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +5.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 4.9% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $1.53m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $540k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $592,500 | Median of the 48 most recent residential sales, settled 17 Jul 2026 to 21 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $750 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +7.1% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $520 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +4.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 2.6% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 5.0% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Canterbury | $626 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Canterbury, over 12 months | +3.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Sydney - Inner South West | $712 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Sydney - Inner South West, over 12 months | +3.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Greater Sydney | $789 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Sydney, over 12 months | +5.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 141 tracked applications: 65 approved, 28 under assessment, 48 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 6 projects in Lakemba (1 under construction) and 86 more in the surrounding area.
Upgrade of Lakemba Station to Sydney Metro standards as part of the City and Southwest project, delivered by Haslin Constructions and Stephen Edwards. Works include platform screen doors, mechanical gap fillers, level access between trains and platforms, accessibility upgrades, new signage, seating, public artwork, and interchange improvements.
Public domain upgrades in Lakemba Town Centre to improve public spaces on Haldon Street and surrounding streets. Includes enhanced streetscape, lighting upgrades, pedestrian safety improvements, and upgrades to Gillies Reserve to provide a more permanent place for the community to enjoy.
The upgrade of the 130-year-old Belmore Station is part of the Sydney Metro City and Southwest project. It involves converting the existing T3 Bankstown Line to metro standards, featuring the installation of platform screen doors, mechanical gap fillers for level access, and heritage restoration of station buildings.
Three residential flat buildings (approved) ranging from five to 10 storeys with basement car parking, communal open space and a new roadway to be dedicated to Council. Sydney South Planning Panel granted development consent in Aug 2022 for 144 dwellings (DA-55/2021).
A 30km metro rail line extending the M1 Northwest Line from Chatswood to Bankstown via twin tunnels under Sydney Harbour and the CBD. The Chatswood to Sydenham section opened on 19 August 2024. The converted 13.5km Sydenham to Bankstown section opened on 30 October 2026, completing the 66km corridor with 31 stations.
Upgrade of Wiley Park Station to metro standards as part of the T3 Bankstown Line conversion to the Sydney Metro Southwest (M1 line extension). Works include new lifts installed for the first time in the station's history, platform screen doors, level access between platforms and trains, a refreshed concourse, new station entry plaza with seating, lighting…
The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Centre of Excellence is a state-of-the-art $60 million high-performance training and administration hub at Belmore Sports Ground. The three-storey facility features an 800sqm indoor training space, NRL and NRLW standard change rooms, aquatic recovery pools, a 70-person theatrette, and medical facilities.
Wiley Park Plaza is a large-scale mixed-use development adjacent to Wiley Park railway station, comprising 280 residential apartments, a public plaza, supermarket, retail specialty shops, commercial office space and 3-storey basement car parking with 248 spaces.
A mixed-use development at 892-936 Canterbury Road, Roselands, comprising 98 residential apartments, 700sqm of retail space, and basement parking. The project integrates modern urban design to enhance the Canterbury Road corridor, providing residential and commercial spaces to meet local community demands.
A 9-storey mixed-use development featuring 132 residential apartments (1, 2, and 3-bedroom), a 120-place childcare centre, ground-floor commercial space, and three levels of basement parking.
Demolition of existing structures, lot consolidation, and construction of a 6-storey mixed-use development comprising 4 buildings with 120 residential apartments, 1300 sqm of commercial/retail space, basement parking, pool, and associated landscaping.
A modern residential development at 956 Canterbury Road, Roselands, featuring 48 contemporary apartments with high-quality finishes, communal spaces, and convenient access to local shopping, schools, and public transport along the Canterbury Road corridor.
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 57 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 1, 2026 23, 2027 16, 2028 6, 2029 4, 2030 3, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 4. 12 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 141 substantial development applications lodged in and around Lakemba over the past 5 years, 70 in the last 12 months; 28 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2022 (part year) 14, 2023 14, 2024 23, 2025 22, 2026 (to Nov) 68.
Key application 206-210 Lakemba Street, Lakemba Retail | $22m Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 141 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 70 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 1.0 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 10th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 17 | ABS building approvals | 29th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 65 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 28 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Lakemba SA2 include: Lakemba Station Sydney Metro Upgrade (Construction); Lakemba Transport Oriented Development Masterplan (Approved); Lakemba Town Centre Upgrades (Planning); 5-7, 7A and 9 Croydon Street Lakemba Residential Development (Approved); and Sydney Metro City and Southwest (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Lakemba SA2 spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Residential Development, among others.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Lakemba is very low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Lakemba SA2 area has seen 35 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Lakemba SA2's current population of 18,053 has been supported by 17 approvals on average over recent years.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Lakemba SA2's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 17, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the Lakemba SA2 has seen 85 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential market oversupply.
03People
Population, age, income, work, education and more.
99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Lakemba reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 18,053 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +5.6% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 8,256 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 98th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | 0.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | 0.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 17,092 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 961 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 2.19 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Lakemba SA2 was estimated to be approximately 18,053 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 17,756 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The lakemba sa2 has added approximately 961 people and shown a 5.62% increase from the 17,092 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Lakemba SA2 is estimated at 8,243 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Lakemba SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.0% per annum.
Population growth in the Lakemba SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (79.2%), Natural increase (20.8%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 79.2% of overall population gains.
Lakemba hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 8% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 32 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 8th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 10.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 23.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 31.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 54.4% | 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 | 32 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 8.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 15.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 11.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 20.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 16.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 7.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 6.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 3.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Lakemba SA2 at 32 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 32 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 32 years as at August 2026, Lakemba is 5 years younger than the Greater Sydney 2021 Census average (37 years) and 6 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Lakemba SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 20.1% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Lakemba SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 7.4% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Lakemba SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Sydney. The most over-represented age group is 0-4 year-olds (8.7% vs 5.5%). The most under-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (1.1% vs 2.1%) and 75-84 year-olds (3.2% vs 5.3%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 23.7% of the population in the Lakemba SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 10.4% of the population in the Lakemba SA2 as at August 2026.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 6% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $36,308 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | |
| Average taxable income | $47,113 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,227 | 2021 Census, weekly | 15th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $521 | 2021 Census, weekly | 4th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 10.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $1,285 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 29.5% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Lakemba SA2 is approximately $38,624. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $36,308.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Lakemba SA2 is approximately $50,119. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $47,113.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Lakemba SA2 is approximately $38,624 compared to $67,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $36,308 and $63,183 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Lakemba SA2 is approximately $50,119 compared to $92,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $47,113 and $86,684 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Lakemba SA2's households (~32.4% / 1,605 households) is the $800 - 1,499 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Lakemba SA2 is the $800 - 1,499 group, representing about 32.4% of households. In comparison, Greater Sydney's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 30.9% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Lakemba SA2 is $1,227/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Lakemba SA2 is $1,285/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Lakemba SA2 is $521/wk.
The Lakemba SA2's income level is lower than average on a national basis according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Lakemba SA2's median income among taxpayers is $36,308 and the average income stands at $47,113, 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 $38,624 (median) and $50,119 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Lakemba SA2 is $4,080 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The lakemba sa2's disposable income is $4,080 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Lakemba face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 9% of areas assessed nationally.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 10.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 57.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 6,980 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 15,621 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 7,758 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Lakemba SA2 has approximately 6,980 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 10.0%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Lakemba SA2 stands at 10.0%, which is 5.9 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 Lakemba SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are retail trade (14.9% of employment), health care & social assistance (13.9%), and transport, postal & warehousing (11.5%). Other significant employers include accommodation & food and public administration & safety.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Lakemba SA2 has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Greater Sydney saw employment increased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the Lakemba SA2 is 57.9%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Greater Sydney average of 68.9%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The lakemba sa2 shows notable specialisation in transport, postal & warehousing, which employs 11.5% of the local workforce compared to 5.3% across Greater Sydney. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 2.2, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The lakemba sa2's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 3.8% decline, ranking 32nd out of 37 regions nationally.
Educational attainment in Lakemba sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 24.1% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 14.0% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 39.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 10.7% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.4% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.6% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 40.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 39.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 7.9% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 13.9% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.7% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
39.5% of people aged 15 and over in the Lakemba SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in Greater Sydney.
40.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Lakemba SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% in Greater Sydney.
The lakemba sa2 ranks in the 48th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Lakemba SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (24.1%), Postgraduate (14.0%), Certificate (10.7%).
39.7% of the population in the Lakemba SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 13.9% in primary school, 7.7% in secondary school, 7.9% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Lakemba SA2 is 1001, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 7 schools within the Lakemba SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 3,221 students.
The lakemba sa2 includes 4 primary schools, 2 secondary schools, 1 combined school.
Lakemba features high concentrations of group households and couples with children but relatively few couples without children, with a larger average household size than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 3.1 people | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 19.5% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 44.5% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 14.6% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 10.4% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 8.9% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 4,950 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 5,228 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 71.5% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Lakemba SA2 had 4,950 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 5.6% to an estimated 5,228 households today.
The average household size in the Lakemba SA2 is 3.1 people. This compares to 2.7 in Greater Sydney and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 71.5% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (19.5%), group households (8.9%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 3,539 family households, couples with children account for 44.5% of all households, couples without children at home 14.6%, and single parent families 10.4%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Sydney, the Lakemba SA2 shows distinct household patterns. The prevalence of shared households suggests a younger demographic or affordability considerations.
Families in the Lakemba 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 55.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 31.2% have never married. This compares to 48.3% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Sydney.
Single-person households represent 19.5% of all households in the Lakemba 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 8.9% of households, above the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Lakemba 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 | 65.2% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 81.5% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 18.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Australian citizens | 63.3% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 34.8% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.3% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
Lakemba is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country, with 65.2% of its population born overseas and 81.5% speaking a language other than English at home.
The main religion in Lakemba was found to be Islam, which makes up 68.3% of people in Lakemba. This compares to 6.8% across Greater Sydney.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Lakemba are Other, comprising 49.8% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Sydney's 16.0%, Indian, comprising 10.5% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Sydney's 3.6%, and Australian, comprising 8.2% of the population, which is notably lower than Greater Sydney's 17.8%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Lebanese is notably overrepresented at 6.3% of Lakemba (vs 2.6% across Greater Sydney), Vietnamese at 3.5% (vs 1.8%) and Greek at 2.8% (vs 1.9%).
65.2% of the Lakemba SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% across Greater Sydney.
81.5% of the population in the Lakemba SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in Greater Sydney.
0.3% of the Lakemba SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in Greater Sydney.
63.3% of the Lakemba SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in Greater Sydney.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Lakemba 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 | 59.9% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 20.9% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 70.0% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $1,712 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 40th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 19.2% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 4.1% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $350 | 2021 Census, weekly | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 28.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 32.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 94th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 1.4 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
In the Lakemba SA2, 20.9% of homes are owned outright, 19.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 59.9% are rented.
According to the latest data, 25.6% of dwellings in the Lakemba SA2 are houses.
In the Lakemba SA2, 70.0% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 4.1% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Lakemba SA2 stands at 20.9%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Lakemba SA2 is $1,712, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Lakemba SA2 is $1,237, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Lakemba SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 32.2% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 28.5% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Lakemba SA2 is 1.4, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Lakemba SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 32.2% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% in Greater Sydney), while renters spend 28.5% of income on rent (vs 22.6% in Greater Sydney).
The dwelling mix in the Lakemba SA2 consists of 25.6% detached houses, 4.1% semi-detached dwellings, 70.0% apartments, and 0.3% other dwelling types.
Housing in Lakemba consumes approximately 23.3% of median household income ($5,313 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Lakemba show attached dwellings contributing 11% of approvals compared to 74% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 89% of applications versus 26% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Housing density growth is around the national average.
Health performance in Lakemba is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 46.1% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | |
| No long-term health condition | 81.3% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.4% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 86.6% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.6% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
Around 46.1% of people in the Lakemba SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.8% in Greater Sydney.
In the Lakemba SA2, 5.4% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
4.2% of people in the Lakemba SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.4% of the population across Greater Sydney is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.5% of the Lakemba SA2 population, while in Greater Sydney, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.6% of people in the Lakemba SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Sydney,3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Lakemba SA2, 46.1% 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 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 | 81 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 81st percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 83 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 65th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 4,281 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 72nd percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 216 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 25 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 0.8 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 25.3% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 83 public transport stops within the Lakemba SA2.
The Lakemba SA2 has 4,281 weekly trips across 25 routes, averaging 611 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 109 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 180 m away and the nearest school 270 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 83 stops nearby, 4,281 weekly trips, access rating 81 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 | 180 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 270 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 325 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 386 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 391 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 403 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 594 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 857 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 8 long day care centres with 302 places in Lakemba, about 5.2 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 Lakemba 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 Lakemba.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Lakemba is very low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Lakemba ranks in the 59th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Lakemba's affordable property market has recorded 216 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 98% residential and 2% commercial transactions.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Lakemba reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Lakemba hosts a very young demographic, ranking in the bottom 8% of areas nationwide.
Income metrics place the area in the bottom 6% of locations nationally according to AreaSearch analysis.
Employment conditions in Lakemba face significant challenges, ranking among the bottom 9% of areas assessed nationally.
Educational attainment in Lakemba sits close to the middle of locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and performance metrics.
Lakemba features high concentrations of group households and couples with children but relatively few couples without children, with a larger average household size than Greater Sydney.
Lakemba is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Lakemba features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Sydney.
Health performance in Lakemba is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and 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 above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Lakemba has an estimated 18,053 residents, up 5.6% since the 2021 Census, with 6 projects tracked in Lakemba.
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 Lakemba.
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 2026. Housing and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (119021573). 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 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Lakemba 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 Lakemba 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.
