Area profile · Greater Sydney
Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay has an estimated 11,931 residents, up 0.1% since the 2021 Census, with 23 projects tracked in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 6.2 kilometres east from Sydney CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is around 11,931 as of Aug 2026. The 2021 Census recorded 11,924 people, indicating minimal change; the assessment of the latest ERP (Estimated Resident Population) outputs from the ABS and new addresses added since the Census shows no significant movements. The area also has a high apartment composition and strong outright home ownership.
The community includes a high proportion of teenagers and elderly residents, is exceptionally well educated, and is among the most affluent in the country. Significant infrastructure and major project spending is planned and may support performance and demand, while population growth patterns remain limited. Sales activity is relatively low compared with population size.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 11,933 in 2001 and 11,846 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 11,931 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 15 to 24, 14.8%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $4000+, 45.5%.
Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay ranks in the 96th percentile nationally for health and the 95th for income.
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 Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay is $1,182 a week, up 9.8% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 50% above Greater Sydney. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 2.0%.
50% above Greater Sydney on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $1,629 in 2017, $2,650 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $721 in 2017, $1,050 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3/63 New South Head Road, Vaucluse NSW 2030 | $7,600,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 1/34 Girilang Avenue, Vaucluse NSW 2030 | $4,550,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 41 Spencer Street, Rose Bay NSW 2029 | $8,632,350 | 25 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 6 Chapel Road, Vaucluse NSW 2030 | $8,900,000 | 22 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 124 Hopetoun Avenue, Vaucluse NSW 2030 | $7,950,000 | 21 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 682 Old South Head Road, Rose Bay NSW 2029 | $6,900,000 | 21 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 19/11 Newcastle Street, Rose Bay NSW 2029 | $2,900,000 | 16 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 17 New South Head Road, Vaucluse NSW 2030 | $16,000,000 | 15 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 8/18 Hamilton Street, Rose Bay NSW 2029 | $3,250,000 | 14 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 134 Hopetoun Avenue, Vaucluse NSW 2030 | $22,000,000 | 10 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 48 residential sales recorded since 25 May 2026 (the latest settled 30 Sep 2026), newest first. The median of these 48, houses and units together, was $5,525,000 (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 | $1,182 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +9.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 2.0% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $6.95m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $1.68m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $5,525,000 | Median of the 48 most recent residential sales, settled 25 May 2026 to 30 Sep 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $2,650 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +2.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $1,050 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +7.5% | 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 | 2.4% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Eastern Suburbs - North | $1,040 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Eastern Suburbs - North, over 12 months | +7.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Sydney - Eastern Suburbs | $974 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Sydney - Eastern Suburbs, over 12 months | +5.9% | 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 252 tracked applications: 81 approved, 83 under assessment, 88 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 23 projects in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay (4 under construction) and 170 more in the surrounding area.
Construction of a new largely underground wastewater pump station at Parsley Bay and associated pipelines as part of Sydney Water's Refresh…
Boutique residential development proposal with contemporary design and premium finishes
Demolition of the existing Villa Florida residence and construction of a luxury multi-level private dwelling designed by Bruce Stafford…
Woollahra Municipal Council redevelopment of the at-grade Wilberforce Avenue public car park in the Rose Bay village centre into a…
Proposed 9-storey residential development consisting of 54 apartments, including 14 affordable housing units.
Mixed-use development comprising a 23 apartment residential flat building with a child care centre, basement parking, landscaping and…
Comprehensive redevelopment and restoration of the 18-hole Championship Course designed by Gil Hanse and Jim Wagner.
A Mediterranean-inspired collection of up to 22 residences with timeless interiors by Alexander &CO and landscapes by Wyer & Co.
Harbourfront boutique residential development featuring the sensitive integration of two new architectural wings with a heritage-listed…
Demolition of the existing houses and construction of a new residential flat building containing 6 units, with basement parking and…
Luxury apartment development with 8 oversized apartments ranging from 121m2 to 173m2, featuring natural stone benches, oak timber flooring…
Amalgamated site of 12 houses (5,978.5 sqm total) for sale via Expressions of Interest, closing June 26, 2025.
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 82 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2024 1, 2025 7, 2026 39, 2027 20, 2028 9, 2029 5, 2030 0, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 1. 47 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 252 substantial development applications lodged in and around Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay over the past 5 years, 215 in the last 12 months; 83 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 3, 2022 9, 2023 4, 2024 10, 2025 16, 2026 (to Oct) 210.
Key application 17 Dover Road, Rose Bay Mixed Use | $29m Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 252 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 215 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 3.8 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 51st percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 46 | ABS building approvals | 56th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 81 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 83 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
The long-run outlook for infrastructure is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Infrastructure development impacting the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Education & Training, among others.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees a low level of activity in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay, placing the area among the bottom 24% of areas assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 area has seen 72 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2's current population of 11,931 has been supported by 46 approvals on average over recent years.
The Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 has seen 3.8 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 439 people in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2, compared to one for every 165 in Greater Sydney.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 46, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 has seen 230 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.
Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 11,931 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +0.1% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 2,323 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 75th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | -0.7% | 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 | 11,924 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 7 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | 0.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | -0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 5.14 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 was estimated to be approximately 11,931 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 11,846 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The rose bay - vaucluse - watsons bay sa2 has added approximately 7 people and shown a 0.06% increase from the 11,924 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is estimated at 2,321 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of -0.6% per annum.
Population growth in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (100.0%), Natural increase (0.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 100.0% of overall population gains.
Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 44 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 74th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 23.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 15.2% | 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 | 46.7% | 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 | 44 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 11.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 14.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 10.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 10.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 13.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 13.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 10.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 8.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 4.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 at 44 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 44 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 44 years as at August 2026, Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay is 7 years older than the Greater Sydney 2021 Census average (37 years) and 6 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 8.7% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 10.1% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Sydney. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (4.2% vs 2.1%) and 75-84 year-olds (8.7% vs 5.3%). The most under-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (10.1% vs 16.2%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 15.2% of the population in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 23.3% of the population in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 as at August 2026.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 5% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $83,521 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 97th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $214,795 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $3,469 | 2021 Census, weekly | 99th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,450 | 2021 Census, weekly | 97th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 56.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $4,590 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 12.1% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is approximately $88,850. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $83,521.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is approximately $228,499. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $214,795.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is approximately $88,850 compared to $67,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $83,521 and $63,183 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is approximately $228,499 compared to $92,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $214,795 and $86,684 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2's households (~45.5% / 1,927 households) is the $4000+ cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is the $4000+ group, representing about 45.5% 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 Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is $3,469/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is $4,590/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is $1,450/wk.
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 had a median income among taxpayers of $83,521 with the average level standing at $214,795. This is exceptionally high nationally and compares to levels of $63,183 and $86,684 across Greater Sydney respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $88,850 (median) and $228,499 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is $13,003 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The rose bay - vaucluse - watsons bay sa2's disposable income is $13,003 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch analysis reveals Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay significantly outperforming the majority of regions assessed nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 1.9% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 65.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 6,359 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 11,011 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 6,482 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 has approximately 6,359 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 1.9%. 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 Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 stands at 1.9%, which is 2.3 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 Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are professional & technical (17.9% of employment), health care & social assistance (13.1%), and finance & insurance (12.4%). Other significant employers include education & training and retail trade.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay 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 Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is 65.2%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Greater Sydney average of 68.9%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Sydney.
The rose bay - vaucluse - watsons bay sa2 shows notable specialisation in professional & technical, which employs 17.9% 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 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The rose bay - vaucluse - watsons bay 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.
Educational achievement in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay places it within the top 6% nationally, reflecting strong academic performance and high qualification levels across the community.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 36.8% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 14.9% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 55.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 7.8% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.3% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.8% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 27.3% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 32.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 7.2% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.8% | 2021 Census | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 10.7% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
55.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in Greater Sydney.
27.3% of people aged 15 and over in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% in Greater Sydney.
The rose bay - vaucluse - watsons bay sa2 ranks in the 94th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (36.8%), Postgraduate (14.9%), Advanced Diploma (9.8%).
32.5% of the population in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.8% in primary school, 10.7% in secondary school, 7.2% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is 1156, indicating above-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 7 schools within the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,741 students.
The rose bay - vaucluse - watsons bay sa2 includes 4 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 2 combined schools.
Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay features high concentrations of couples with children but relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.6 people | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 24.1% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 36.8% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 27.8% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 8.4% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.3% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 4,235 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 4,237 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 73.7% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.5 per family | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 had 4,235 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 4,237 households today.
The average household size in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is 2.6 people. This compares to 2.7 in Greater Sydney and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 73.7% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (24.1%), group households (2.3%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 3,121 family households, couples with children account for 36.8% of all households, couples without children at home 27.8%, and single parent families 8.4%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Sydney, the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 have an average of 1.5 children, matching 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 32.7% have never married. This compares to 48.3% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Sydney.
Single-person households represent 24.1% of all households in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay 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 2.3% of households, below the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 37.6% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 18.3% | 2021 Census | 59th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 81.7% | 2021 Census | 40th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 86.1% | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 62.4% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.3% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 18.3% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 37.6% born overseas.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay are English, comprising 22.3% of the population, Australian, comprising 16.9% of the population, and Other, comprising 14.7% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: South African is notably overrepresented at 3.8% of Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay (vs 0.5% across Greater Sydney), Polish at 2.3% (vs 0.6%) and Russian at 1.8% (vs 0.4%).
37.6% of the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% across Greater Sydney.
18.3% of the population in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in Greater Sydney.
0.3% of the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in Greater Sydney.
86.1% of the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in Greater Sydney.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 27.4% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 44.4% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 46.1% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $4,195 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 99th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 28.2% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 7.5% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $713 | 2021 Census, weekly | 99th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 20.6% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 49th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 27.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 80th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
In the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2, 44.4% of homes are owned outright, 28.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 27.4% are rented.
According to the latest data, 46.1% of dwellings in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 are houses.
In the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2, 43.6% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 7.5% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 stands at 44.4%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is $4,195, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is $2,029, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 27.9% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 20.6% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 27.9% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% in Greater Sydney), while renters spend 20.6% of income on rent (vs 22.6% in Greater Sydney).
The dwelling mix in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 consists of 46.1% detached houses, 7.5% semi-detached dwellings, 43.6% apartments, and 2.8% other dwelling types.
Housing in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay consumes approximately 13.5% of median household income ($15,021 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay show attached dwellings contributing 56% of approvals compared to 54% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 44% of applications versus 46% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay'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 | 92.3% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 99th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 76.1% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 3.5% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 84.7% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.3% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
Around 92.3% of people in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.8% in Greater Sydney.
In the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2, 3.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
5.3% of people in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay 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 Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 population, while in Greater Sydney, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.0% of people in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Sydney,3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2, 92.3% 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 | 91 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 91st percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 135 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 84th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 4,237 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 72nd percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 88 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 39 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.3 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 57.7% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 135 public transport stops within the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2.
The Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 has 4,237 weekly trips across 39 routes, averaging 605 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 126 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 297 m away and the nearest pharmacy 428 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 135 stops nearby, 4,237 weekly trips, access rating 91 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 49 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 49th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 297 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 428 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 434 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 953 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest bank | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.4 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 3.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 4.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 4.3 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 10 long day care centres with 509 places in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay, about 0.9 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.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees a low level of activity in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay, placing the area among the bottom 24% of areas assessed nationally.
Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay ranks in the 78th percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay's resilient property market has recorded 218 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 97% residential and 3% commercial transactions.
Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay hosts a notably older demographic compared to the national average.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 5% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
AreaSearch analysis reveals Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay significantly outperforming the majority of regions assessed nationwide.
Educational achievement in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay places it within the top 6% nationally, reflecting strong academic performance and high qualification levels across the community.
Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay features high concentrations of couples with children but relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay'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 in line with the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay has an estimated 11,931 residents, up 0.1% since the 2021 Census, with 23 projects tracked in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay.
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 Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay.
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 (118011346). 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 Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay 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 Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay 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.
