Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay

SA2

Greater Sydney / Eastern Suburbs - North

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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Statistical Area (SA2) Boundary Analysis

This analysis uses ABS Statistical Areas Level 2 (SA2) boundaries, which can materially differ from Suburbs and Localities (SAL) even when sharing similar names.

SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (e.g., census and ERP).

Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb/locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.

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Sales ActivityProperty Sales Trends in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay

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Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay has an estimated 11,903 residents. The population has thinned by an average 0.7% a year over five years, slower than 93% of areas nationally. That puts 2,316 residents on each square kilometre. Population is estimated from ABS Estimated Resident Population releases and GNAF address data, re-based from the 2021 Census and updated annually.

Detail

According to the analysis by AreaSearch, the population of Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay stands at approximately 11,903 in May 2026. Compared to the 2021 Census, which recorded 11,924 people, this represents a drop of 21 people (0.2%). This shift is calculated using the ABS estimated resident population of 11,846 from June 2025 combined with 98 validated new addresses registered after the Census. The region's population density reaches 2,315 persons per square kilometer, exceeding the typical ratio observed across assessed national locations. Recent population gains were almost exclusively driven by overseas migration, which served as the primary contributor to growth.

Projections from ABS/Geoscience Australia, published in 2024 using 2022 as the baseline, are utilized by AreaSearch. For SA2 territories not represented in this release, projections at the SA2 level from the NSW State Government issued in 2022 with a 2021 baseline are applied. The age cohort growth rates from these datasets are projected forward to the years 2032 through 2041. Future demographic forecasts suggest the area will experience population growth slightly below the median of national statistical regions, with an projected increase of 1,016 persons by 2041 relative to the most recent annual ERP statistics, representing a 16-year gain of 8.1% in total.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
Total population for the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 was estimated to be approximately 11,903 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 11,846 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 changed since 2021?
The rose bay - vaucluse - watsons bay sa2 has lost approximately 21 people and shown a 0.18% decrease from the 11,924 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
The population density in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is estimated at 2,315 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
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.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
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.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay

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213 new dwellings have been approved in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay over the past five years, an average of 42 a year. That is 3.6 approvals per 1,000 residents. Of the 36 dwellings approved in the latest reporting year, 31% were detached houses and the rest townhouses or apartments. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 43, broadly in line with that longer-run average. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this SA2 boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

Approximately 42 residential approvals have been granted annually in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay, yielding 213 homes over the course of the last 5 financial years. In FY-26 to date, 40 approvals have been documented. Because the local population has decreased, housing availability has successfully met local demand, preserving a balanced market environment with plenty of options for buyers, while newly constructed residences carry an average building cost of $1,502,000, illustrating that builders are targeting high-end, premium projects. Furthermore, commercial development shows strong upward trends, with $443.4 million in commercial project approvals registered during the current financial year.

Relative to Greater Sydney, Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay recorded a slightly higher volume of development (22.0% above the regional per-capita average over the 5 year timeframe), which has supported existing property values while maintaining options for buyers, even though building pace has slowed down lately. This rate also sits below the national benchmark, reflecting that the neighborhood is already highly established and potentially indicating planning constraints. Newly approved construction consists of 31.0% detached dwellings and 69.0% townhouses or apartments. This preference for higher-density housing offers more accessible options for entering the local market, making it attractive to downsizers, investors, and first-time buyers. This trend represents a major shift from the current housing stock (where houses make up 46.0%), pointing to a scarcity of vacant land and reflecting changing lifestyle choices and housing affordability constraints. With 527 people for each dwelling approval, Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay shows a mature building market. Long-term projections indicate that Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay will add 959 residents by 2041 (calculated from the latest quarterly estimates by AreaSearch). Under current construction patterns, the incoming supply of housing is expected to comfortably satisfy demand, providing favorable conditions for purchasers and potentially supporting population growth rates above current forecasts.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 area has seen 48 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 11,903 has been supported by 42 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2's development activity compare to the broader region?
The Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 has seen 0.36 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.65 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 527 people in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2, compared to one for every 190 in the broader region.
Is the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 959 people by 2041, around 480 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels appear broadly sufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 42, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
The population in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is expected to grow by 959 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 480 new dwellings. This calculation is based on the current census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling in the area.
How does recent development compare to population growth in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
Over the past five years, the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 has seen 213 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential market oversupply.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 42 approvals per year and a population of 11,903, the market appears to be reasonably balanced between supply and demand, presenting moderate opportunities for well-positioned developments. With the population expected to increase by 959 people by 2041, around 480 new dwellings will be necessary. Current approval trends may be insufficient to meet forecast demand, indicating strong development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay

Development applications around Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay

Development approvals is a new addition to AreaSearch. We’re actively expanding council coverage and refining the dataset — details and statuses for some councils may be partial. Check back regularly for the latest pipeline.
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SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay

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AreaSearch tracks 26 current infrastructure and development projects inside Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay, worth an estimated $1.29 billion. A further 172 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $16.6 billion. 50 are already under construction and 62 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, communities, precincts & urban renewal and transport & logistics. Records are compiled from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, council planning portals and public announcements, reviewed and updated daily, then ranked by proximity, construction stage, completion horizon and project scale.

Detail

Local infrastructure updates, major construction projects, and zoning adjustments are key drivers of regional performance. AreaSearch has tracked a total of 42 initiatives that are anticipated to affect this area. Notable projects include the Kincoppal-Rose Bay School Campus Masterplan, the Wilberforce Avenue Car Park Redevelopment, the development at 88-96 Newcastle Street Rose Bay, and the Parsley Bay Pump Station, with the subsequent records highlighting those of greatest interest.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 include: Kincoppal-Rose Bay School Campus Masterplan (Construction); Wilberforce Avenue Car Park Redevelopment (Approved); 88-96 Newcastle Street Rose Bay (Planning); Parsley Bay Pump Station (Construction); and Orosi Rose Bay - Residential Development (Planning). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
Infrastructure development impacting the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Education & Training, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates significant investment of approximately $991 million in infrastructure projects affecting the region, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 vicinity.
How does the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
The Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 ranks in the top 20% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
Rose Bay Place Plan 2023-2028
Category: Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The Rose Bay Place Plan 2023-2028 is a strategic document adopted by Woollahra Municipal Council on 26 June 2023 that establishes a shared community vision for the future of Rose Bay. It guides streetscape improvements, public domain upgrades, placemaking initiatives, laneway activations, urban greening, and community facility enhancements across the suburb. The plan was developed through extensive community consultation with residents, businesses, and local organisations, and is being progressively implemented through Council's capital works and operational programs over its five-year term.

Precincts & Urban Renewal

Kincoppal-Rose Bay School Campus Masterplan
Category: Education & Training
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Comprehensive staged campus renewal at Kincoppal-Rose Bay School including a new Junior School Year 5 and 6 Centre, transformation of the Hughes Centre into a Performing Arts Centre, a new Year 12 Learning Hub, and improved student amenities, delivered under State Significant Development consent SSD-10325. Stage 1 works at the Vaucluse Road entry commenced in 2022 with construction partner Buildcorp. The consent allows a staged increase in student numbers to a maximum of 1,205 over a 10-year timeframe.Modification 2, approved in March 2026, amended student capacity conditions to permit a maximum of 100 Early Learning Centre students and 1,105 primary or senior students.

Education & Training

Orosi Rose Bay - Residential Development
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   

50 luxury two and three-bedroom apartments over six storeys at 439-445 Old South Head Road and 1-5 The Avenue, Rose Bay. The development replaces a bakery, martial arts studio, mechanic, cafe, nine-apartment building and decommissioned heritage substation. Features cafe/restaurant and commercial space.

Residential Development

Parsley Bay Pump Station
Category: Environmental & Disaster Management
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Construction of a new largely underground wastewater pump station at Parsley Bay and associated pipelines as part of Sydney Water's Refresh Vaucluse and Diamond Bay project. The infrastructure will divert untreated wastewater from the Vaucluse and Watsons Bay ocean outfalls to the Bondi Water Resource Recovery Facility, improving coastal water quality and protecting marine ecology. Pipeline drilling commenced in 2025, pump station works are underway, and overall project completion remains targeted for late 2026.

Environmental & Disaster Management

Rose Bay Place Plan 2023-2028
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Council-adopted strategic place plan guiding public domain upgrades, transport links, parking, and community facilities across Rose Bay, including Wilberforce Ave car park redevelopment with a new community centre, streetscape upgrades, and a 2.4km cycleway. Adoption date 26 June 2023; plan horizon to 2028.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Candice Rose Bay
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Planning | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   

Boutique residential development proposal with contemporary design and premium finishes

Residential Development

Wilberforce Avenue, Rose Bay Car Park Redevelopment
Category: Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 0
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Woollahra Municipal Council redevelopment of the at-grade Wilberforce Avenue public car park in the Rose Bay village centre into a multi-storey civic building. The approved scheme (DA 598/2022) comprises 229 car spaces in total, made up of 200 public spaces (more than double the 95 currently on site) plus 29 spaces for the new retail and community uses, a two-level community centre of about 812 sqm, 316 sqm of ground floor retail, new accessible public toilets and a parents room, end-of-trip facilities and new public art.Design by architects AJ+C with landscape by Oculus includes a new one-way low-speed laneway (Ian Lane) linking Wilberforce Avenue and Dover Road, a public terrace on the Wilberforce Avenue frontage connected to Pannerong Reserve by a raised pedestrian crossing, and sustainability measures including green walls, EV charging, mixed mode ventilation, increased street and plaza tree canopy and rainwater harvesting for Pannerong Reserve. The development application was approved by the independent Sydney Eastern City Planning Panel on 9 November 2023. Council resolved on 24 March 2025 not to enter a construction contract at that time, and on 26 May 2025 resolved instead to pursue a Public Private Partnership. A PPP Expression of Interest ran from 22 October to 5 December 2025, and at its March 2026 Ordinary Meeting Council resolved to shortlist Perifa Capital Pty Ltd to the Request for Detailed Proposal stage and to investigate changed parking conditions across the Rose Bay Centre. Council previously secured a Special Rate Variation supporting borrowings of approximately $28 million toward delivery. The construction schedule remains to be confirmed pending the outcome of the RFDP process.

Precincts & Urban Renewal

Residential development with in-fill affordable housing - 2-16 Spencer Street, Rose Bay
Category: Residential Development
Stage: Under Assessment | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Proposed 9-storey residential development consisting of 54 apartments, including 14 affordable housing units. Features include three levels of basement car parking, a wellness area, gym, lap pool, and communal gardens. Designed by MHNDU and developed under the State Significant Development (SSD) pathway for in-fill affordable housing.

Residential Development

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay

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6,415 residents of Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay are employed, from a labour force of 6,551. Unemployment sits at 2.1%, with participation at 65.4%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 7.6% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

The local workforce in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay is highly educated, featuring a strong contingent of professionals, an unemployment rate of only 2.1%, and an estimated job growth rate of 2.3% over the prior year. In March 2026, 6,415 employed residents were recorded, with the unemployment rate sitting 2.1% lower than the Greater Sydney level of 4.1%, while workforce participation is somewhat low at 65.4% compared to 69.1% across Greater Sydney. Census responses indicated that a substantial 57.7% of residents worked from home, although this figure may be influenced by pandemic-related lockdowns.

Resident employment is heavily weighted toward professional & technical, health care & social assistance, and finance & insurance. The concentration of professional & technical jobs is particularly high, running at 1.6 times the average across the region. Conversely, transport, postal & warehousing represents a small share of the workforce at 1.7% compared to 5.3% regionally. The comparison between the resident workforce size and the locally employed population suggests this mainly residential area offers limited job opportunities within its own borders. According to AreaSearch's evaluation of SALM and ABS statistics, this 12-month period experienced a 2.3% rise in employment alongside a 2.0% increase in the labor force, leading to a 0.3 percentage point decrease in the unemployment rate. This differed from Greater Sydney, where employment expanded by 1.9%, the labor force increased by 1.9%, and unemployment saw a minor reduction. Future job demand within Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay can be contextualized using national employment forecasts from Jobs and Skills Australia released in May-25. These five and ten-year projections have been applied to the local industry mix to estimate future employment trends. Nationally, employment is projected to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, though expansion rates vary by sector. Projecting these industry-specific trends onto the employment structure of Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay suggests that local jobs will grow by 7.6% over five years and 14.9% over ten years (this represents a simple weighting extrapolation for illustration purposes and does not incorporate local population forecasts).

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
As of March 2026, the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 has approximately 6,415 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.1%. 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.
How does the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 stands at 2.1%, which is 2.1 percentage points below Greater Sydney's rate of 4.1%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
What are the major employment sectors in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
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.
How has employment changed recently in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
Over the past year to March 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 fall. By comparison, Greater Sydney saw employment increased and its unemployment rate dropped.
What is the workforce participation rate in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
The workforce participation rate in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is 65.4%, 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 69.1%, showing similar workforce dynamics to the broader region.
Which industries are over-represented in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2's employment market?
The rose bay - vaucluse - watsons bay sa2 shows notable specialization in professional & technical, which employs 17.9% of the local workforce compared to 11.5% regionally. 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.
What are the employment growth prospects for the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 7.6% over the next five years and 14.9% over ten years. This exceeds the national forecast of 6.6% over five years, suggesting the area's industry composition is well-positioned for future growth. Steady growth is anticipated across multiple sectors, providing diverse employment opportunities.
How does the job market in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 compare nationally?
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 5.9% decline, ranking 29.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
Skilled workers will find excellent opportunities in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2, with knowledge-intensive sectors comprising 53.6% of local employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include professional & technical (17.9%), health care & social assistance (13.1%), and finance & insurance (12.4%). With projected employment growth of 7.6% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay

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Median household income in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay is $3,469 a week (about $180,000 a year), with median personal income at $1,450 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $80,453 a year against an average of $207,015. The average runs 157% above the median, a wider spread than most areas and a sign of a concentrated group of high earners. Household income is from the 2021 Census; taxable income is from ATO Taxation Statistics for the latest financial year available, indexed forward using the ABS Wage Price Index.

Detail

According to the latest ATO statistics compiled by AreaSearch for financial year 2023, the income level in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 ranks exceptionally high on a national scale. Taxpayers in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 record a median income of $80,453 and an average income of $207,015, compared to $60,817 and $83,003 in Greater Sydney. Factoring in Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% since financial year 2023, estimated figures as of March 2026 would be roughly $88,756 for the median and $228,379 for the average.

Census data indicates that household, family, and individual incomes in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay are positioned between the 97th and 99th percentiles nationwide. The weekly earnings distribution is led by the $4000+ bracket which accounts for 45.5% of residents (5,415 people), contrasting with the wider metropolitan region where the $1,500 - 2,999 category is most common at 30.9%. A substantial 56.0% of earners receive weekly incomes exceeding $3,000, indicating high levels of affluence that support local businesses. Housing costs represent 13.5% of income, while strong household earnings place residents in the 99th percentile for disposable income, and the area's SEIFA income score falls in the 10th decile.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is approximately $88,756. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $80,453.
What is the average taxable income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is approximately $228,379. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $207,015.
How does the median taxable income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is approximately $88,756 compared to $67,093 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $80,453 and $60,817 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is approximately $228,379 compared to $91,569 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $207,015 and $83,003 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~45.5% / 5,415 persons) of the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2's population is the $4000+ cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is the $4000+ group, representing about 45.5% of the population. In comparison, Greater Sydney's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 30.9% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 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.
What is the median family income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is $4,590/wk.
What is the median personal income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is $1,450/wk.
How does the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2's income rank nationally?
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-23, the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 had a median income among taxpayers of $80,453 with the average level standing at $207,015. This is among the top percentile nationally and compares to levels of $60,817 and $83,003 across Greater Sydney respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $88,756 (median) and $228,379 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
The estimated disposable income in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is $13,003 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2's disposable income compare to the region?
The rose bay - vaucluse - watsons bay sa2's disposable income is $13,003 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay

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Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay had 4,235 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 46% detached houses and 44% apartments. 28% are owned with a mortgage, 27% rented and 44% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $713 a week and the median mortgage repayment $4,195 a month, a total housing cost higher than 97% of areas nationally. Rent absorbs 20.6% of household income here and mortgage repayments 27.9%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

Residential structures in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay at the time of the latest Census consisted of 46.1% houses and 53.9% other dwelling types (such as semi-detached homes, apartments, and alternative housing), compared to the Sydney metro profile of 55.9% houses and 44.1% other dwellings. The rate of home ownership in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay stood at 44.4%, which is notably higher than the Sydney metro level, while the remaining homes were mortgaged (28.2%) or rented (27.4%). The median monthly mortgage cost in the area was registered at $4,195, and the median weekly rent was $713, which are both significantly above the Sydney metro figures of $2,427 and $470.

On a national level, mortgage payments in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay are much higher than the Australian median of $1,863, and rents are substantially above the countrywide figure of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
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.
What percentage of dwellings in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 are houses?
According to the latest data, 46.1% of dwellings in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 are apartments or units?
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.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
Outright home ownership in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 stands at 44.4%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is $4,195, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
What is the median weekly rent in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
The median weekly rent in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is $713, compared to $470 in Greater Sydney.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
In the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2, 1.2% of rentals are $0-149/week, 4.2% are $150-349/week, 33.3% are $350-649/week, 28.6% are $650-949/week, and 32.7% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
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.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
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.
How crowded are homes in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 27.9% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% regionally), while renters spend 20.6% of income on rent (vs 22.6% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
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.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
Based on the area's tenure composition, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $2,029. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $4,195/month, and renters paying $3,087/month.
How affordable is housing in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 relative to local incomes?
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.
How do proposed developments compare to existing housing types in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
Recent development applications in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay show attached dwellings contributing 50% of approvals compared to 54% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 50% 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.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay

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Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay counted 4,235 households at the 2021 Census, averaging 2.6 people each. 37% are couples with children, against 28% couples without children. 24% of households are people living alone, and families average 1.5 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Family units constitute the majority of households at 73.4%, which includes 36.8% couples raising children, 27.8% couples without children, and 8.4% single parents. Non-family households represent the remaining 26.6%, consisting of lone individuals at 24.1% and group living arrangements at 2.3%. The median household size of 2.6 residents is slightly below the Greater Sydney average of 2.7.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
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 4,228 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median 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.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 73.4% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (24.1%), group households (2.3%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 3,108 family households, 36.8% are couples with children, 27.8% are couples without children at home, and 8.4% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Greater Sydney, the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
What is the average family size?
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.
What are the marriage patterns in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
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.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 24.1% of all households in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2, similar to the regional average of 23.2%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.3% of households, well below the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay

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55.0% of adults in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay hold a university qualification, including 36.8% with a bachelor degree and 14.9% with postgraduate qualifications, higher than 94% of areas nationally. A further 7.8% hold a vocational qualification. 7 schools serve the area, with 2,741 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 1,156 against a national benchmark of 1,000. Qualifications come from the 2021 Census; school enrolments, ICSEA and results come from ACARA's current release.

Detail

The level of educational attainment in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay is significantly higher than broader geographical benchmarks, with 55.0% of residents aged 15+ holding a university degree, compared to 30.4% nationally and 32.2% across NSW. This educational trend positions the community well to benefit from knowledge-based industries. Bachelor degrees are the most common qualification at 36.8%, followed by postgraduate degrees (14.9%) and graduate diplomas (3.3%). Vocational training makes up 17.6% of qualifications for residents aged 15+, consisting of advanced diplomas (9.8%) and certificates (7.8%). Participation in study is high, with 32.5% of the population enrolled in an educational institution.

This includes 10.7% attending secondary school, 9.8% in primary school, and 7.2% enrolled in tertiary programs.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 have university qualifications?
55.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 have no formal qualifications?
27.3% of people aged 15 and over in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% regionally.
How does the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2's education level compare to national averages?
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.
What types of qualifications are most common in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
The most common qualifications in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (36.8%), Postgraduate (14.9%), Advanced Diploma (9.8%).
What proportion of the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2's population is currently attending educational institutions?
32.5% of the population in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, with 9.8% in primary school, 10.7% in secondary school, 7.2% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
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.
How many schools are located within the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
There are 7 schools within the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,741 students.
What types of schools are available in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
The rose bay - vaucluse - watsons bay sa2 includes 4 primary schools, 1 secondary school, 2 combined schools.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay

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Public transport in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay reaches 135 stops on 41 routes, timetabled for about 6,700 services a week. The typical home sits about 130 m from its nearest stop. Buses carry the largest share of public transport commuters. Households keep an average of 1.3 vehicles. Stop and service counts are built from operators' published GTFS timetables and refresh with each timetable release; vehicle ownership is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Public transport systems include 135 active transit stops in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay, utilizing a combination of ferry services and bus routes. These stops accommodate 41 separate routes, which support 6,651 passenger journeys every week. Transit accessibility is classified as excellent, with residents living an average of 126 meters from the nearest stop. Due to the area's residential character, the majority of working residents travel out of the area for employment, with private cars being the primary mode of travel for 76% of commuters, while 9% walk.

Households own an average of 1.3 cars. A high proportion of residents, 57.7%, worked from home according to the 2021 Census, which may have been influenced by pandemic conditions. Service runs average 950 trips daily across the transport network, which translates to about 49 weekly trips per transit stop. The associated map displays the 100 closest transit stops relative to the center of the area.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay?
There are 135 public transport stops within the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2.
How frequent are the transport services in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay?
the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 has 6,651 weekly trips across 41 routes, averaging 950 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay?
On average, residential properties are 126 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay

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76.1% of residents in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay report no long-term health condition, a healthier profile than 96% of areas nationally. 3.5% need daily assistance with core activities, and 92.5% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 3.9 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Health indicators show excellent results in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay, according to AreaSearch's evaluation of mortality rates and chronic illness indicators, with a low incidence of common health issues across all age brackets. The rate of private health insurance is exceptionally high, covering about 92% of the population (11,010 people), compared to 59.9% in Greater Sydney and a national average of 55.7%. The most prevalent medical conditions reported in the area were arthritis (6.1% of residents) and asthma (5.3% of residents), while 76.1% of the population reported having no chronic medical conditions, compared to 74.6% across Greater Sydney.

The community has a high concentration of residents aged 65 and over, making up 23.8% of the population (2,831 people), compared to 15.5% in Greater Sydney. Health indicators for these older residents are strong, with national performance metrics matching those of the broader population.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 have private health insurance?
Around 92.5% of people in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.9% in the broader region of Greater Sydney.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
In the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2, 3.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
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.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
Diabetes affects 2.7% of the the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 population, while in the surrounding region, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
4.0% of people in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 have heart disease. Across the region of Greater Sydney, 3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2, 92.5% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Sydney sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 59.9%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay

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37.6% of Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay residents were born overseas and 18.3% speak a language other than English at home. The largest reported ancestries are English (22.3%) and Australian (16.9%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay exhibits a higher level of cultural diversity than most local areas, with 18.3% of residents speaking a language other than English at home and 37.6% born outside Australia. Christianity is the most common religious affiliation, representing 42.9% of the population. The most distinct religious concentration is Judaism, which accounts for 23.2% of the local population, substantially higher than the Greater Sydney average of 0.8%. Regarding ancestral backgrounds based on parents' birthplace, the three largest groups in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay are English (22.3% of the population), Australian (16.9%), and Other (14.7%).

There are also notable differences in other ancestral groups: South Australian background is highly represented at 3.8% of the local population (compared to 0.5% across the region), Polish at 2.3% (compared to 0.6% regionally), and Russian at 1.8% (compared to 0.4% regionally).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
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.
What is the most common religion in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
The main religion in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay was found to be Christianity, which makes up 42.9% of people in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 23.2% of the population, substantially higher than the Greater Sydney average of 0.8%.
What are the top countries of origin in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
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% regionally), Polish at 2.3% (vs 0.6%) and Russian at 1.8% (vs 0.4%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
37.6% of the the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% regionally.
What percentage of the the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 population speaks a language other than English at home?
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 the wider region.
How many people in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 identify as Australian Aboriginal?
0.3% of the the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
86.1% of the the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay

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The median resident of Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay is 44. 24.5% of residents are aged 15 to 34. Age cohorts are not raw Census counts: the Census split is re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections.

Detail

The median age in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay is 44, which is notably older than the Greater Sydney median of 37 and the national average of 38. The 75 - 84 age bracket is highly represented at 9.0% compared to Greater Sydney, whereas the 25 - 34 cohort has a lower share at 9.4%. Since the 2021 Census, the proportion of residents aged 75 to 84 has risen from 7.2% to 9.0%, and the 15 to 24 age group has grown from 13.3% to 15.0%. Conversely, the 45 to 54 group has decreased from 15.1% to 13.4%, and the 5 to 14 cohort has dropped from 13.0% to 11.8%.

Demographic projections suggest the age distribution in Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay will undergo significant changes by 2041. The 85+ cohort is expected to increase by 85% (425 people), rising from 499 to 925. The aging trend is pronounced, with seniors aged 65 and over accounting for 78% of the projected population growth, while the 0 to 4 and 5 to 14 age cohorts are projected to see declines in population.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
According to the latest data, the median age in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is 44 years.
How does the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2's median age compare to broader areas?
At 44 years, Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay is 7 years older than the Greater Sydney average (37 years) and 6 years older than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
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 9.0% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
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 9.4% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 show significant variance compared to the Greater Sydney region. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (4.2% vs 2.1%) and 75-84 year-olds (9.0% vs 5.3%). The most under-represented age groups are 25-34 year-olds (9.4% vs 16.1%) and 0-4 year-olds (3.5% vs 5.6%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is 15.4%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 is 23.8%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay

Data currency Refreshed

9 of 14 data sections on this page were updated within the last 12 months — the newest current to Aug 2026.

Everything is aggregated to the SA2 boundary shown above, on a 2021 Census baseline. Only 3 sections — housing, households and cultural diversity — still wait on the 2026 Census.

The ledger — source, cycle and currency by section

Section Source & update cycle Currency
Updated within the last 12 months 9 sections
Population ABS, GNAF, Geoscience Australia Annual (ABS ERP) May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release) and updated with new dwellings from GNAF address data. Current to May 2026, with the 2021 Census supplying the small-area baseline.
Age profile ABS, Geoscience Australia, State governments Annual May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Age cohorts are re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections, current to May 2026. Each cohort is held as a Census baseline and a current estimate.
Development & approvals ABS, GNAF Monthly (ABS approvals) Jun 2026 2 months ago headline measures · May 2026 baseline
Property sales & rents Valuer General, Rental Board, ABS Weekly sales, quarterly rents Aug 2026 this month all 21 measures
Sales from the state Valuer General register, refreshed weekly, and rents from quarterly rental bond lodgements. Both are read live each time this page loads, current to Aug 2026.
Infrastructure projects Infrastructure Australia, State agencies, Local governments Daily Jul 2026 last month all 26 projects tracked here
Project pipeline maintained continuously from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, local government and public announcements. Records are added and revised daily; this area was last updated Jul 2026.
Employment ABS, DEWR, JSA Quarterly (ABS SALM) Mar 2026 5 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Unemployment and labour force from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, current to Mar 2026. The growth outlook applies Department of Employment (now Jobs and Skills Australia) forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to the local industry mix, so it measures sector composition rather than local expansion and makes no allowance for population growth. Job demand comes from the same agency via its Internet Vacancy Index; industry and occupation structure from the 2021 Census.
Education ABS, ACARA Annual (ACARA) Jul 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Transport ABS, State Transport Departments Each timetable release Jul 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Services & amenities Provider directories, ACECQA Continuous Jul 2026 last month all 14 measures
Annual and financial-year sources 2 sections
Income ABS, ATO Annual (ATO) FY 2023 3 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
ATO taxable income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index. Census household income provides the distribution detail.
Health ABS, ATO Annual 2024 2 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Census-measured — next update: 2026 Census 3 sections No more current small-area source exists for these, so they are labelled as Census-measured rather than implied to be current.
Housing ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 30 measures
Households ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 18 measures
Cultural diversity ABS, Geoscience Australia 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 44 measures

"Currency" is the most recent release feeding that section. Where the Census supplies the structural baseline underneath a current headline figure, the row says so.

How the numbers are built

Population

The Census provides the small-area baseline, aggregated from mesh blocks to this boundary. It is then re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release), and new dwellings built since Census night are counted from address data — 98 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (11,924 at the 2021 Census → 11,903 now). Annual growth rates are compound (CAGR), not simple averages.

Age profile

Cohort shares are not raw Census counts. Every cohort is held as a pair — the Census baseline and a current estimate — and the split is re-based using ERP and state population projections, current to May 2026. Median age is the Census median plus modelled change since. Charts that show both are labelled "2021 Census vs Current Estimate".

Property sales

Sourced from the state valuation authority's sales register — current, not Census, and refreshed weekly. Medians are calculated from settled transactions in the period shown; periods with very low transaction counts are flagged or suppressed, because a handful of sales can move a median substantially.

Rents

Derived from state rental bond lodgement data, by dwelling type and bedroom count. Bonds are lodged at the start of a new tenancy, so this reflects new lettings, not the whole rented stock.

Development & infrastructure

Building approvals come from current ABS releases; development applications are collected from council and state planning portals; the infrastructure pipeline is compiled from Infrastructure Australia and local government sources. Applications are matched to this boundary by address or coordinates, so very recent lodgements may not yet appear.

Employment & income

Industry and occupation structure comes from the Census, but the headline labour-market indicators do not. Unemployment and labour force are derived from ABS Small Area Labour Markets (quarterly). The employment outlook applies Department of Employment forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to this area's own industry mix (the agency is now Jobs and Skills Australia), as does the Internet Vacancy Index used for job demand. Because it is weighted on industry composition alone, that outlook carries no allowance for local population growth — in fast-growing areas the real rise in local jobs will typically be higher. Income combines Census household income with ATO taxable-income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index.

Education, transport & amenities

School enrolments, ICSEA and performance come from ACARA's current release, not the Census. Public transport stops and service frequency are derived from GTFS timetable feeds published by state transport departments. Services and amenities are proximity and count scores built from provider directories, refreshed on their own cycle. The Census contributes only the travel-to-work and qualification measures.

Rankings and benchmarks. Where we rank this area, the comparison set is every area of the same boundary type — suburbs against suburbs, SA2s against SA2s. Benchmarks compare this area against its greater capital city region and the national figure for the same measure and period.

Limits worth knowing. Small areas carry larger error margins, and the ABS introduces small random adjustments to Census counts to protect confidentiality — so totals may not sum exactly. Estimates re-based from regional data describe the area's expected trajectory, not a direct count of it. Figures are indicative for research and are not financial, planning or valuation advice.

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.

Common questions about this page

Why can the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay SA2 boundary differ from the suburb boundary?
This page uses ABS Statistical Area Level 2 (SA2) boundaries for statistical reporting (e.g., 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.
Where does the data on this Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay page come from?
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources — including ABS, Geoscience Australia, Valuer General, Provider directories, DEWR, JSA, State Transport Departments and ACARA — then aggregates them to the boundary shown and calculates the rankings, 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.
Is the Rose Bay - Vaucluse - Watsons Bay data on this page just from the 2021 Census?
No. Most of this page is maintained well beyond the Census. Sourced entirely from current releases: development & approvals (Jun 2026), property sales & rents (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Jul 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to May 2026), age profile (to May 2026), employment (to Mar 2026), income (to FY 2023), education (to Jul 2026), transport (to Jul 2026) and health (to 2024). Population and age cohorts in particular are re-based to the latest ABS Estimated Resident Population rather than left at 2021 counts. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.

Nearby Areas