Area profile · Greater Sydney
Northmead has an estimated 21,899 residents, up 8.0% since the 2021 Census, with 21 projects tracked in Northmead.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Northmead Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 22 kilometres west-northwest from Sydney CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at around 21,899 as of Aug 2026 (ERP), an increase of 1,624 people (8.0%) since the 2021 Census count of 20,275 people. The estimate draws on an ABS ERP of 21,799 as of June 2025 and 774 validated new addresses since the Census date. The area shows moderate population expansion and has a high share of residents born overseas, a well-educated population, and a notable presence of people aged 35 to 44.
Northmead combines a strong apartment presence and above-average renting with below-average unemployment. Its residents include a high proportion of young adults and working-age people, with group households also prominent. The area is highly culturally diverse and has above-average educational attainment.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 13,306 in 2001 and 21,799 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 21,899 (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, 22.9%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 37.1%.
Northmead ranks in the 92nd percentile nationally for cultural diversity and the 91st 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 Northmead is $640 a week, up 3.5% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 19% below Greater Sydney. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 5.3%.
19% below Greater Sydney on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $516 in 2017, $733 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $444 in 2017, $604 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50/14 Campbell Street, Northmead NSW 2152 | $675,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 9/20 Briens Road, Northmead NSW 2152 | $500,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 18/1 Russell Street, Baulkham Hills NSW 2153 | $876,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 13/13 Kleins Road, Northmead NSW 2152 | $561,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 7/40 Lydbrook Street, Westmead NSW 2145 | $537,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 8/18 Murray Street, Northmead NSW 2152 | $686,000 | 24 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 17/37 Balmoral Road, Northmead NSW 2152 | $630,000 | 17 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 1323/1 Maple Tree Road, Westmead NSW 2145 | $580,000 | 16 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 34/29 Darcy Road, Westmead NSW 2145 | $675,000 | 14 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 3/3 Queens Road, Westmead NSW 2145 | $558,000 | 14 Sep 2026 | Unit |
The 10 most recent of the 50 residential sales recorded since 28 Jul 2026 (the latest settled 1 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 50, houses and units together, was $614,000 (a different set from the medians above). Source: NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch, to October 2026. Commercial, vacant land and nominal sales are left out. Unit means the address has a unit number; a street address has none.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $640 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +3.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 5.3% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $1.67m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $590k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $614,000 | Median of the 50 most recent residential sales, settled 28 Jul 2026 to 1 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $733 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +6.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $604 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +3.3% | 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 | 5.3% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Parramatta | $664 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Parramatta, over 12 months | +4.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Sydney - Parramatta | $691 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Sydney - Parramatta, over 12 months | +3.8% | 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 136 tracked applications: 87 approved, 25 under assessment, 24 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 21 projects in Northmead (7 under construction) and 149 more in the surrounding area.
A multibillion-dollar transformation of the Westmead Health Precinct into a global hub for healthcare, research, and education.
West Grove is the redevelopment of Westmead Shopping Village into a mixed-use gateway precinct opposite Westmead Station and close to…
West Grove is a 100 million AUD mixed-use gateway development located directly opposite Westmead Train Station.
The Sydney Metro West Western Tunnelling Package is part of the 24km Sydney Metro West underground railway doubling rail capacity between…
The NSW Government has committed $492 million to establish the NSW Health Pathology Statewide Hub at the Westmead Health Precinct.
The $659.1 million Stage 2 redevelopment of The Children's Hospital at Westmead delivered the 14-storey Paediatric Services Building, known…
Upgrade to Northmead Public School replacing ageing demountable classrooms with permanent facilities.
Major upgrade of Darcy Road Public School delivering 45 new modern flexible classrooms, new administration and staff spaces, library…
Aspect, the second stage of Westmead Rise, is a residential complex developed by Deicorp in collaboration with Turner Studio.
Stream Northmead is a three-level industrial estate by Hannas at 150 Briens Road, Northmead.
The centrepiece of the $1.1 billion Westmead Redevelopment, the 14-storey Central Acute Services Building (CASB) is one of Australia's…
Bridge Place is a high-density 'vertical village' development featuring two towers of 27 and 28 storeys.
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 97 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2024 1, 2025 2, 2026 26, 2027 26, 2028 15, 2029 10, 2030 8, 2031 3, 2032 3, 2033 1, 2034 0, 2035 1, 2036 1. 18 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 136 substantial development applications lodged in and around Northmead over the past 5 years, 94 in the last 12 months; 25 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 3, 2022 12, 2023 11, 2024 11, 2025 8, 2026 (to Oct) 91.
Key application 2-6 Helen Street, Westmead Aged Care | $110m | 223 dwellings Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 136 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 94 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 4.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 56th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 93 | ABS building approvals | 78th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 87 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 25 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Northmead SA2 include: West Grove Westmead (Construction); Sydney Metro West - Western Tunnelling Package (Construction); West Grove (Construction); Northmead Public School Upgrade (Construction); and Stream Northmead (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Northmead SA2 spans multiple sectors including Social Infrastructure, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Health & Medical, among others.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, recent residential development output has been above average within Northmead when compared nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Northmead SA2 area has seen 260 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Northmead SA2's current population of 21,899 has been supported by 93 approvals on average over recent years.
The Northmead SA2 has seen 4.4 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 6.2 approvals in Greater Sydney. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 274 people in the Northmead SA2, compared to one for every 165 in Greater Sydney.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Northmead SA2's approval levels have been slightly above the yearly average of 93, showing modest growth in recent years.
Over the past five years, the population in the Northmead SA2 has grown by approximately 354 people, while 465 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.8 people added for each new dwelling approval. This low ratio indicates housing supply is outpacing population growth, potentially creating 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.
Northmead has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 21,899 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +8.0% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 3,691 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 89th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 20,275 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 1,624 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.2% | 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 | 5.93 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Northmead SA2 was estimated to be approximately 21,899 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 21,799 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The northmead sa2 has added approximately 1,624 people and shown a 8.01% increase from the 20,275 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Northmead SA2 is estimated at 3,693 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Northmead SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.6% per annum.
Population growth in the Northmead SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (84.5%), Natural increase (15.5%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 84.5% of overall population gains.
Northmead hosts a young demographic, positioning it in the bottom quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 34 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 16th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 17.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 32.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 60.2% | 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 | 34 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 6.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 9.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 22.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 19.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 10.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 7.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 6.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 4.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Northmead SA2 at 34 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 34 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 34 years as at August 2026, Northmead is 3 years younger than the Greater Sydney 2021 Census average (37 years) and 4 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Northmead SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 22.9% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Northmead SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 9.9% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Northmead SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Sydney. The most over-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (22.9% vs 16.2%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 17.8% of the population in the Northmead SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 12.1% of the population in the Northmead SA2 as at August 2026.
The area exhibits notably strong income performance, ranking higher than 73% of areas assessed nationally through AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $64,285 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 70th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $77,324 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,075 | 2021 Census, weekly | 70th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,007 | 2021 Census, weekly | 79th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 28.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,401 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 16.5% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Northmead SA2 is approximately $68,386. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $64,285.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Northmead SA2 is approximately $82,257. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $77,324.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Northmead SA2 is approximately $68,386 compared to $67,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $64,285 and $63,183 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Northmead SA2 is approximately $82,257 compared to $92,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $77,324 and $86,684 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Northmead SA2's households (~37.1% / 2,861 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Northmead SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 37.1% 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 Northmead SA2 is $2,075/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Northmead SA2 is $2,401/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Northmead SA2 is $1,007/wk.
As per AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Northmead SA2's median income among taxpayers is $64,285, with an average of $77,324. This is above the national average, 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 $68,386 (median) and $82,257 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Northmead SA2 is $7,383 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The northmead sa2's disposable income is $7,383 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis of employment trends sees Northmead performing better than 86% of local markets assessed across Australia.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 82.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 14,189 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 24,897 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 14,544 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Northmead SA2 has approximately 14,189 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.4%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. The area ranks in the top 25% nationally for employment performance, indicating a robust job market.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Northmead SA2 stands at 2.4%, which is 1.7 percentage points below Greater Sydney's rate of 4.2%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Northmead SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (19.3% of employment), professional & technical (12.6%), and retail trade (9.1%). Other significant employers include finance & insurance and education & training.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Northmead 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 Northmead SA2 is 82.7%, 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%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
The northmead sa2 shows notable specialisation in health care & social assistance, which employs 19.3% of the local workforce compared to 14.1% across Greater Sydney. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The northmead sa2's employment market shows strong performance nationally, ranking in the top 25% of areas assessed by AreaSearch. This indicates robust employment conditions and economic vitality compared to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 3.8% decline, ranking 32nd out of 37 regions nationally.
Northmead shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 31.7% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 18.6% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 53.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 12.7% | 2021 Census | 14th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.3% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 24.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 31.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 7.3% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 10.0% | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 5.6% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
53.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Northmead SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in Greater Sydney.
24.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Northmead SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% in Greater Sydney.
The northmead sa2 ranks in the 78th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Northmead SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (31.7%), Postgraduate (18.6%), Certificate (12.7%).
31.0% of the population in the Northmead SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 10.0% in primary school, 5.6% in secondary school, 7.3% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Northmead SA2 is 1067, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 9 schools within the Northmead SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 4,627 students.
The northmead sa2 includes 2 primary schools, 4 secondary schools, 3 combined schools.
Northmead features high concentrations of group households but relatively few couples without children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.5 people | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 25.6% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 34.9% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 23.9% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 9.0% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 5.3% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 7,719 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 8,337 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 69.2% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.2 per family | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Northmead SA2 had 7,719 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 8.0% to an estimated 8,337 households today.
The average household size in the Northmead SA2 is 2.5 people. This compares to 2.7 in Greater Sydney and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 69.2% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (25.6%), group households (5.3%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 5,342 family households, couples with children account for 34.9% of all households, couples without children at home 23.9%, and single parent families 9.0%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Sydney, the Northmead SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Northmead 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 53.3% of the adult population are currently married, while 32.4% have never married. This compares to 48.3% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Sydney.
Single-person households represent 25.6% of all households in the Northmead 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 5.3% of households, above the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Northmead 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 | 52.9% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 53.7% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 46.3% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 69.1% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 47.1% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.6% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
Northmead is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country, with 53.7% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 52.9% born overseas.
The main religion in Northmead was found to be Christianity, which makes up 41.8% of people in Northmead. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Hinduism, which comprises 23.6% of the population, substantially higher than the Greater Sydney average of 5.2%.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Northmead are Other, comprising 22.2% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Sydney's 16.0%, Indian, comprising 16.5% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Sydney's 3.6%, and Australian, comprising 13.6% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Korean is notably overrepresented at 2.1% of Northmead (vs 1.1% across Greater Sydney), Lebanese at 2.4% (vs 2.6%) and Sri Lankan at 0.7% (vs 0.3%).
52.9% of the Northmead SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% across Greater Sydney.
53.7% of the population in the Northmead SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in Greater Sydney.
0.6% of the Northmead SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in Greater Sydney.
69.1% of the Northmead SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in Greater Sydney.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Northmead features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 53.5% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 17.2% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 57.7% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,167 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 76th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 29.3% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 13.8% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $420 | 2021 Census, weekly | 71st percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 20.2% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 45th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 24.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 50th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 1.0 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
In the Northmead SA2, 17.2% of homes are owned outright, 29.3% are owned with a mortgage, and 53.5% are rented.
According to the latest data, 28.4% of dwellings in the Northmead SA2 are houses.
In the Northmead SA2, 57.7% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 13.8% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Northmead SA2 stands at 17.2%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Northmead SA2 is $2,167, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Northmead SA2 is $1,608, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Northmead SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 24.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.2% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Northmead SA2 is 1.0, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Northmead SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 24.1% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% in Greater Sydney), while renters spend 20.2% of income on rent (vs 22.6% in Greater Sydney).
The dwelling mix in the Northmead SA2 consists of 28.4% detached houses, 13.8% semi-detached dwellings, 57.7% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Northmead consumes approximately 17.9% of median household income ($8,985 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Northmead show attached dwellings contributing 83% of approvals compared to 72% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 17% of applications versus 28% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Northmead's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 56.0% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 63rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 78.8% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 3.8% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 84.1% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.5% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
Around 56.0% of people in the Northmead SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.8% in Greater Sydney.
In the Northmead SA2, 3.8% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
5.7% of people in the Northmead SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.4% of the population across Greater Sydney is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.9% of the Northmead SA2 population, while in Greater Sydney, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.5% of people in the Northmead SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Sydney,3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Northmead SA2, 56.0% 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 | 89 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 89th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 94 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 70th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 9,634 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 94th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 232 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 98 | 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 | 49.8% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 94 public transport stops within the Northmead SA2.
The Northmead SA2 has 9,634 weekly trips across 98 routes, averaging 1,376 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 166 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 265 m away and the nearest GP 374 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 94 stops nearby, 9,634 weekly trips, access rating 89 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 91 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 91st percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 265 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 374 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 423 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 467 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 474 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 490 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 548 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 1.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.9 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 14 long day care centres with 821 places in Northmead, about 1.8 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 Northmead when compared nationally.
Northmead ranks in the 65th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Northmead's affordable property market has recorded 500 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 97% residential and 3% commercial transactions.
Northmead has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
Northmead hosts a young demographic, positioning it in the bottom quartile nationwide.
The area exhibits notably strong income performance, ranking higher than 73% of areas assessed nationally through AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis of employment trends sees Northmead performing better than 86% of local markets assessed across Australia.
Northmead shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
Northmead features high concentrations of group households but relatively few couples without children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
Northmead is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Northmead features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Sydney.
Northmead's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with a fairly standard level of common health conditions seen across both young and old 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.
Northmead has an estimated 21,899 residents, up 8.0% since the 2021 Census, with 21 projects tracked in Northmead.
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 Northmead.
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, 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 (125041491). 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, 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 Northmead 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 Northmead 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.
