Area profile · Greater Sydney
Lane Cove has an estimated 16,712 residents, up 5.2% since the 2021 Census, with 15 projects tracked in Lane Cove.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Lane Cove Statistical Area (Lv2), located 7.0 kilometres northwest from Sydney CBD, has an estimated population of approximately 16,712 as of Aug 2026. Since the 2021 Census count of 15,888 people, the population is estimated to have increased by 824 people (5.2%), based on the ABS estimated resident population of 16,705 as of June 2025 and 189 validated new addresses since the Census date. The area has a high proportion of working-age residents, strong population growth, and notable representation in the 35 to 44yo group.
Its housing has a high apartment composition, and finance and insurance is a notable employment base. The area combines a strong community spirit with parklands, scenic waterways, local cafes and shops, and a village atmosphere.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Lane Cove Statistical Area (Lv2), located 7.0 kilometres northwest from Sydney CBD, has an estimated population of approximately 16,712 as of Aug 2026. Since the 2021 Census count of 15,888 people, the population is estimated to have increased by 824 people (5.2%), based on the ABS estimated resident population of 16,705 as of June 2025 and 189 validated new addresses since the Census date. The area has a high proportion of working-age residents, strong population growth, and notable representation in the 35 to 44yo group.
Its housing has a high apartment composition, and finance and insurance is a notable employment base. The area combines a strong community spirit with parklands, scenic waterways, local cafes and shops, and a village atmosphere.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 12,070 in 2001 and 16,705 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 16,712 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 35 to 44, 18.6%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $4000+, 33.2%.
Lane Cove ranks in the 99th percentile nationally for education and the 97th for health.
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 Lane Cove is $814 a week, up 5.0% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 3% above Greater Sydney. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.8%.
3% above Greater Sydney on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $946 in 2017, $1,328 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $587 in 2017, $782 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
Yield is indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools.
| Address | Sale price | Settled | Address type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 23 Fox Street, Lane Cove NSW 2066 | $3,250,000 | 29 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 704/390 Pacific Highway, Lane Cove NSW 2066 | $1,450,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 413/14 Finlayson Street, Lane Cove NSW 2066 | $1,000,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 7/105 Burns Bay Road, Lane Cove NSW 2066 | $840,000 | 23 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 103/2 Birdwood Avenue, Lane Cove NSW 2066 | $792,500 | 23 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 2 Myee Crescent, Lane Cove West NSW 2066 | $3,025,000 | 18 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 22/299 Burns Bay Road, Lane Cove West NSW 2066 | $872,500 | 17 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 210/9 Mafeking Avenue, Lane Cove NSW 2066 | $745,000 | 17 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 8/120 Burns Bay Road, Lane Cove NSW 2066 | $470,000 | 17 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 15/38 Centennial Avenue, Lane Cove NSW 2066 | $770,000 | 14 Sep 2026 | Unit |
The 10 most recent of the 49 residential sales recorded since 15 Jul 2026 (the latest settled 29 Sep 2026), newest first. The median of these 49, houses and units together, was $886,000 (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 | $814 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 | 3.8% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $3.25m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $925k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $886,000 | Median of the 49 most recent residential sales, settled 15 Jul 2026 to 29 Sep 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $1,328 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +8.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $782 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +4.6% | 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 | 4.2% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Chatswood - Lane Cove | $861 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Chatswood - Lane Cove, over 12 months | +6.5% | 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 189 tracked applications: 123 approved, 28 under assessment, 38 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Lane Cove, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 15 projects in Lane Cove (2 under construction) and 138 more in the surrounding area.
Five-storey residential flat building with 86 affordable dwellings (43 social housing and 43 affordable housing), semi-basement/at-grade parking for 42 vehicles, bicycle parking, landscaping and public domain improvements. State Significant Development SSD-71687208 approved 16 June 2025.
RetireAustralia is redeveloping the former Caroline Chisholm Retirement Village into a seniors living community comprising 52 independent living units across two four-storey buildings. The development includes communal facilities, landscaped open space, and basement parking.
A $798M State Significant Development proposal (SSD-82052708) to establish an 81MW hyperscale data centre across 21,832 sqm in the Lane Cove West Industrial Area bordering Chatswood West.
Mixed-use renewal of the St Andrews Anglican Church site delivering new church and ministry facilities, a 418-seat community auditorium, and 48 residential apartments over eight storeys. Development includes community facilities and two levels of basement parking.
A $46 million industrial complex approved by Sydney North Planning Panel. Developed by Eton Huang with Architex design, the development includes a contemporary light industrial building with 19 industrial units totalling 7,520 sqm GFA, plus 44 self-storage units and 244 parking spaces over three basement levels.
NSW Sydney North Planning Panel has approved DA35/2024 (as modified under s4.55(2) on 8 Aug 2025) for demolition of existing motel and dwelling and construction of a part 4, part 5 and part 6 storey residential development comprising 43 apartments and 2 three-bedroom townhouses, with two basement parking levels (approx.
Goodman Group is proposing Project Mars, a 798 million AUD hyperscale data centre at 12 Mars Road, Lane Cove West. The State Significant Development (SSD-82052708) involves the demolition of four existing industrial warehouses to construct a three-storey data centre campus with a 90MW power capacity.
Significant pipeline installation and road restoration works being delivered by Interflow for Sydney Water. The project increases water supply capacity for the AirTrunk SYD2 and SYD1 data centres in the Lane Cove West Business Park. Works involve extensive trenching along Sirius Road, Mars Road, and Apollo Place, with completion expected by mid-2026.
NSW Land and Housing Corporation development at 20-22 Mindarie Street and 30 Pinaroo Place. A 21m high development providing affordable housing units with sustainable design features and community spaces. Part of the NSW Government's social housing acceleration program.
Major data centre development by Goodman Group on former ABC studios site. Seven-storey, 80MW facility on 1.4ha site with $845.85 million investment.
Hyperscale data centre facility by AirTrunk with 120MW capacity across 29,000sqm of technical data hall area. One of Australia's largest data centres supporting cloud infrastructure and telecommunications services.
Redevelopment of the former Sydney Metro Chatswood Dive site into a major mixed-use district, featuring 180 essential worker build-to-rent apartments in a 23-storey building for Stage 1, up to 1,500 total dwellings across the masterplan, central green space, retail, and community restoration of historic Mowbray House.
Images marked AI impression are illustrative only and not photographs of the project; follow the project links for actual imagery. Original imagery? Contact us.
AreaSearch has tracked 189 substantial development applications lodged in and around Lane Cove over the past 5 years, 110 in the last 12 months; 28 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 6, 2022 19, 2023 13, 2024 28, 2025 18, 2026 (to Oct) 105.
Key application 21 - 41 Canberra Avenue, St Leonards Multi-Resi | $161m | 323 dwellings Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 189 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 110 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 3.5 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 46th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 57 | ABS building approvals | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 123 | 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 Lane Cove SA2 include: Finrose - St Andrews Anglican Church Redevelopment (Approved); Project Mars Data Centre Lane Cove West (Under Assessment); Project Mars Data Centre (12 Mars Road) (Under Assessment); Lane Cove West Water Infrastructure and Road Works (Construction); and Lane Cove North Affordable Housing Project (Dev. Approval). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Lane Cove SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Business Parks & Technology Hubs, and Residential Development, among others.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Lane Cove when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Lane Cove SA2 area has seen 126 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Lane Cove SA2's current population of 16,712 has been supported by 57 approvals on average over recent years.
The Lane Cove SA2 has seen 3.5 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 714 people in the Lane Cove SA2, compared to one for every 165 in Greater Sydney.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Lane Cove SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 57, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the Lane Cove SA2 has grown by approximately 804 people, while 284 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.8 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.
Population growth drivers in Lane Cove are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 16,712 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +5.2% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 3,740 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 90th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 15,888 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 824 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.4% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 4.47 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Lane Cove SA2 was estimated to be approximately 16,712 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 16,705 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The lane cove sa2 has added approximately 824 people and shown a 5.19% increase from the 15,888 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Lane Cove SA2 is estimated at 3,739 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Lane Cove SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.9% per annum.
Population growth in the Lane Cove SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (72.0%), Natural increase (28.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 72.0% of overall population gains.
Lane Cove's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 38 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 40th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 15.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 18.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 24.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 55.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 38 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 12.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 10.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 14.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 18.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 13.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 9.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 7.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 5.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Lane Cove SA2 at 38 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 38 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 38 years as at August 2026, Lane Cove is comparable to the Greater Sydney 2021 Census average (37 years) and similarly aligned with equal to the national Census average.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Lane Cove SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 35 - 44 group, making up 18.6% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Lane Cove SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 10.8% of the population.
No, the age distribution in the Lane Cove SA2 is broadly in line with Greater Sydney.
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 18.0% of the population in the Lane Cove SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 15.2% of the population in the Lane Cove SA2 as at August 2026.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 4% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $84,300 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 97th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $138,310 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,648 | 2021 Census, weekly | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,361 | 2021 Census, weekly | 96th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 45.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $3,434 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 13.4% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Lane Cove SA2 is approximately $89,678. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $84,300.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Lane Cove SA2 is approximately $147,134. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $138,310.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Lane Cove SA2 is approximately $89,678 compared to $67,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $84,300 and $63,183 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Lane Cove SA2 is approximately $147,134 compared to $92,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $138,310 and $86,684 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Lane Cove SA2's households (~33.2% / 2,065 households) is the $4000+ cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Lane Cove SA2 is the $4000+ group, representing about 33.2% of households. In comparison, Greater Sydney's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 30.9% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Lane Cove SA2 is $2,648/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Lane Cove SA2 is $3,434/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Lane Cove SA2 is $1,361/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Lane Cove SA2's median income among taxpayers is $84,300, with an average of $138,310. This is exceptionally high nationally, and compares to Greater Sydney's median of $63,183 and average of $86,684. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $89,678 (median) and $147,134 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Lane Cove SA2 is $9,551 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The lane cove sa2's disposable income is $9,551 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch assessment positions Lane Cove ahead of most Australian regions for employment performance.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 3.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 73.1% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 9,659 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 16,522 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 9,985 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Lane Cove SA2 has approximately 9,659 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 3.3%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment performance is above the national median, showing positive labour market dynamics.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Lane Cove SA2 stands at 3.3%, which is 0.9 percentage points below Greater Sydney's rate of 4.2%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Lane Cove SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are professional & technical (18.4% of employment), health care & social assistance (13.0%), and finance & insurance (12.5%). Other significant employers include education & training and retail trade.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Lane Cove 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 Lane Cove SA2 is 73.1%, 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 lane cove sa2 shows notable specialisation in professional & technical, which employs 18.4% of the local workforce compared to 11.5% across Greater Sydney. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The lane cove sa2's employment market shows above-average performance nationally, placing in the top half of areas assessed. Employment indicators suggest healthy labour market conditions relative to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 3.8% decline, ranking 32nd out of 37 regions nationally.
Lane Cove 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 | 36.8% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 17.7% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 58.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 10.0% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 4.2% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.2% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 21.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 29.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 6.2% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 10.0% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 7.0% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
58.7% of people aged 15 and over in the Lane Cove SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in Greater Sydney.
21.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Lane Cove SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% in Greater Sydney.
The lane cove 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 Lane Cove SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (36.8%), Postgraduate (17.7%), Advanced Diploma (10.2%).
29.7% of the population in the Lane Cove SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 10.0% in primary school, 7.0% in secondary school, 6.2% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Lane Cove SA2 is 1160, indicating above-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 5 schools within the Lane Cove SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,819 students.
The lane cove sa2 includes 5 primary schools.
Lane Cove has relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 27.1% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 34.3% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 26.5% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 8.4% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 6,215 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 6,537 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 70.0% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.2 per family | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Lane Cove SA2 had 6,215 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 5.2% to an estimated 6,537 households today.
The average household size in the Lane Cove SA2 is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.7 in Greater Sydney and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 70.0% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (27.1%), group households (2.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 4,350 family households, couples with children account for 34.3% of all households, couples without children at home 26.5%, and single parent families 8.4%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Sydney, the Lane Cove SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Lane Cove SA2 have an average of 1.2 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 52.2% of the adult population are currently married, while 33.3% have never married. This compares to 48.3% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Sydney.
Single-person households represent 27.1% of all households in the Lane Cove 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 2.8% of households, below the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Lane Cove was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets in Australia, upon assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 40.0% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 30.2% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 69.8% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 82.7% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 60.0% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.3% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
Lane Cove scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 30.2% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 40.0% born overseas.
The main religion in Lane Cove was found to be Christianity, which makes up 48.1% of people in Lane Cove. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 1.0% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Greater Sydney.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Lane Cove are English, comprising 21.0% of the population, Australian, comprising 18.0% of the population, and Other, comprising 13.1% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Hungarian is notably overrepresented at 0.5% of Lane Cove (vs 0.3% across Greater Sydney), Russian at 0.7% (vs 0.4%) and Korean at 1.2% (vs 1.1%).
40.0% of the Lane Cove SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% across Greater Sydney.
30.2% of the population in the Lane Cove SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in Greater Sydney.
0.3% of the Lane Cove SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in Greater Sydney.
82.7% of the Lane Cove SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in Greater Sydney.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Lane Cove 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 | 38.9% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 27.9% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 56.4% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $3,000 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 95th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 33.2% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 7.4% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $550 | 2021 Census, weekly | 94th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 20.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 51st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 26.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 68th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 1.0 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
In the Lane Cove SA2, 27.9% of homes are owned outright, 33.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 38.9% are rented.
According to the latest data, 36.0% of dwellings in the Lane Cove SA2 are houses.
In the Lane Cove SA2, 56.4% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 7.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Lane Cove SA2 stands at 27.9%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Lane Cove SA2 is $3,000, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Lane Cove SA2 is $1,923, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Lane Cove SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 26.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.8% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Lane Cove SA2 is 1.0, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Lane Cove SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 26.1% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% in Greater Sydney), while renters spend 20.8% of income on rent (vs 22.6% in Greater Sydney).
The dwelling mix in the Lane Cove SA2 consists of 36.0% detached houses, 7.4% semi-detached dwellings, 56.4% apartments, and 0.2% other dwelling types.
Housing in Lane Cove consumes approximately 16.8% of median household income ($11,466 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Lane Cove show attached dwellings contributing 84% of approvals compared to 64% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 16% of applications versus 36% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Lane Cove'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 | 80.9% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 98th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 76.9% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 3.1% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 82.5% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.4% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
Around 80.9% of people in the Lane Cove SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.8% in Greater Sydney.
In the Lane Cove SA2, 3.1% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
6.8% of people in the Lane Cove SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.4% of the population across Greater Sydney is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.7% of the Lane Cove SA2 population, while in Greater Sydney, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.5% of people in the Lane Cove SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Sydney,3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Lane Cove SA2, 80.9% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Sydney sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 59.8%.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 87 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 87th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 108 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 76th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 4,636 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 75th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 155 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 48 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 0.9 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 62.5% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 108 public transport stops within the Lane Cove SA2.
The Lane Cove SA2 has 4,636 weekly trips across 48 routes, averaging 662 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 121 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 297 m away and the nearest GP 519 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 108 stops nearby, 4,636 weekly trips, access rating 87 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 88 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 88th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 297 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 388 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 519 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 526 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest school | 529 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 572 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 582 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 2.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.8 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 9 long day care centres with 635 places in Lane Cove, about 1.5 children aged 0-4 per place.
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05Reports and tools
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06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Lane Cove when compared nationally.
Lane Cove ranks in the 74th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Lane Cove's established property market has recorded 352 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 93% residential and 6% commercial transactions.
Population growth drivers in Lane Cove are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Lane Cove's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 4% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
AreaSearch assessment positions Lane Cove ahead of most Australian regions for employment performance.
Lane Cove demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 1% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
Lane Cove has relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
Lane Cove was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets in Australia, upon assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Lane Cove features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Sydney.
Lane Cove'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 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.
Lane Cove has an estimated 16,712 residents, up 5.2% since the 2021 Census, with 15 projects tracked in Lane Cove.
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 Lane Cove.
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 Sep 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 (121011686). 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 (Sep 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 Lane Cove 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 Lane Cove 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.
