Area profile · Greater Sydney
Surry Hills has an estimated 17,205 residents, up 8.7% since the 2021 Census, with 16 projects tracked in Surry Hills.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Surry Hills Statistical Area (Lv2), located 2.3 kilometres south from Sydney CBD, is estimated by AreaSearch to have approximately 17,205 residents as of Aug 2026. This is an estimated increase of 1,377 people (8.7%) from the 2021 Census population of 15,828 people, based on the ABS estimated resident population of 17,184 as of June 2025 and 168 validated new addresses since the Census date. The area is characterised by young professionals, a strong apartment presence and a high proportion of renters, alongside severely limited dwelling supply.
Residents include a high share of young adults and working-age people, with many living in lone person or group households. Surry Hills is very well educated and affluent, while population growth shows limited expansion patterns. Sales volumes are significantly above average relative to population. The area is also known for its creative scene, cafes, bistros, artisanal shops, Victorian architecture, tree-lined streets, galleries, design studios, boutiques, festivals, events, markets, award-winning restaurants and diverse eateries.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Surry Hills Statistical Area (Lv2), located 2.3 kilometres south from Sydney CBD, is estimated by AreaSearch to have approximately 17,205 residents as of Aug 2026. This is an estimated increase of 1,377 people (8.7%) from the 2021 Census population of 15,828 people, based on the ABS estimated resident population of 17,184 as of June 2025 and 168 validated new addresses since the Census date. The area is characterised by young professionals, a strong apartment presence and a high proportion of renters, alongside severely limited dwelling supply.
Residents include a high share of young adults and working-age people, with many living in lone person or group households. Surry Hills is very well educated and affluent, while population growth shows limited expansion patterns. Sales volumes are significantly above average relative to population. The area is also known for its creative scene, cafes, bistros, artisanal shops, Victorian architecture, tree-lined streets, galleries, design studios, boutiques, festivals, events, markets, award-winning restaurants and diverse eateries.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 13,909 in 2001 and 17,184 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 17,205 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 34.1%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 29.2%.
Surry Hills ranks in the 99th percentile nationally for amenities and the 98th for transport & access.
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 Surry Hills is $818 a week, up 4.9% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 4% above Greater Sydney. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 4.0%.
4% above Greater Sydney on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $890 in 2017, $1,169 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $628 in 2017, $782 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
Yield is indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools.
| Address | Sale price | Settled | Address type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 54/397 Bourke Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010 | $315,000 | 7 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 38/1 Pelican Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010 | $1,075,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 29/446 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010 | $790,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 61/2 Goodlet Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010 | $622,500 | 2 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 72/230 Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010 | $535,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 108/174 Goulburn Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010 | $730,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 5/453 Bourke Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010 | $1,500,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 18/14 Davies Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010 | $1,280,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 3 Raper Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010 | $2,900,000 | 29 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 25 Lansdowne Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010 | $2,750,000 | 29 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 45 residential sales recorded since 11 Aug 2026 (the latest settled 7 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 45, houses and units together, was $1,175,000 (a different set from the medians above). Source: NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch, to October 2026. Commercial, vacant land and nominal sales are left out. Unit means the address has a unit number; a street address has none.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $818 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +4.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 4.0% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $2.41m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $893k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $1,175,000 | Median of the 45 most recent residential sales, settled 11 Aug 2026 to 7 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $1,169 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +7.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $782 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +3.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 2.4% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 4.5% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Sydney Inner City | $884 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Sydney Inner City, 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 | |
| Median rent, NSW | $715 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, NSW, over 12 months | +5.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 404 tracked applications: 154 approved, 53 under assessment, 197 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 16 projects in Surry Hills (4 under construction) and 199 more in the surrounding area.
The Mariyung Fleet is a new double-deck electric intercity fleet replacing the ageing V-set and Oscar trains in NSW. Built by the RailConnect NSW consortium of UGL, Hyundai Rotem and Mitsubishi Electric Australia, the trains feature 2x2 seating, charging ports, luggage, pram and bicycle spaces, and accessible toilets.
Atlassian Central is a 39-storey hybrid timber and concrete office tower at 8-10 Lee Street, Haymarket, beside Central Station in the NSW Government's Tech Central precinct. Designed by SHoP Architects and BVN and built by a Built and Obayashi joint venture for Dexus and Atlassian, it began construction in August 2022.
Adaptive reuse and heritage conservation of the prominent commercial building at Taylor Square, retaining the existing curved brick facade. The approved proposal introduces a three-storey vertical extension to deliver contemporary commercial office space alongside ground-floor food and drink premises.
The Post House is a 45-storey mixed-use tower in the Tech Central precinct at Haymarket, Sydney, also known as TOGA Central. The tower rises above the heritage-listed former Parcels Post Office, which is retained, and provides about 29,228 square metres of office space, a 204-room hotel, and ground-floor retail and dining.
A $2 billion transformative mixed-use redevelopment of the former Harbourside Shopping Centre at Darling Harbour, delivered as a 50/50 joint venture between Mirvac and Mitsubishi Estate Co.
Major redevelopment and expansion of the Sydney Jewish Museum, retaining the existing Holocaust Museum while adding a new Centre for Contemporary Jewish Life and Tolerance, expanded education facilities and new exhibition galleries. Construction is underway following development approval.
A state-significant transformation of Cockle Bay Wharf into a vibrant mixed-use precinct. The project features a 183-metre commercial tower providing 75,000 sqm of premium office space, a 14,000 sqm retail and entertainment podium, and over 15,000 sqm of public open space, including a 5,500 sqm elevated park bridging the Western Distributor to reconnect the…
Central Place Sydney is a $3 billion commercial and urban regeneration development by Dexus and Frasers Property Australia adjacent to Sydney's Central Station. The project comprises two 35 and 37-storey office towers and an 8-storey connector building, supplying more than 130,000 sqm of sustainable workspace and tech-focused office accommodation.
Redevelopment of historic warehouse into a luxury apartment complex with 156 residences, including affordable housing units.
The Powerhouse Ultimo Revitalisation is a $300 million heritage renewal of the Powerhouse Museum at 500 Harris Street, Ultimo, led by Infrastructure NSW.
A $200 million mixed-use precinct revitalising three heritage blocks on Oxford Street, Darlinghurst. The development delivers 9,200 square metres of commercial office space, 1,600 square metres of cultural and creative tenancies, 2,300 square metres of retail, a 75-room boutique hotel, and activation of Foley Street as a laneway dining and entertainment…
Redevelopment of the former Palace Verona cinema site into a boutique mixed-use commercial and cultural building. Designed by Studio SC and Scott Carver Architects, the scheme includes subterranean modernised cinemas, ground-floor retail, commercial office spaces, and a rooftop dining venue.
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 88 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 7, 2026 20, 2027 21, 2028 13, 2029 13, 2030 6, 2031 2, 2032 4, 2033 1, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 1. 64 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 404 substantial development applications lodged in and around Surry Hills over the past 5 years, 201 in the last 12 months; 53 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 11, 2022 44, 2023 33, 2024 58, 2025 67, 2026 (to Oct) 191.
Key application 16-22 Wentworth Avenue, Surry Hills Commercial | $72m Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 404 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 201 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 0.1 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 2 | ABS building approvals | 7th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 154 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 53 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Dwelling approval activity in the Surry Hills SA2 area has seen 5 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Surry Hills SA2's current population of 17,205 has been supported by 2 approvals on average over recent years.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Surry Hills SA2's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 2, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the Surry Hills SA2 has grown by approximately 145 people, while 11 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 13.2 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Surry Hills SA2 include: Marlborough House Redevelopment (Approved); Mariyung Fleet (New Intercity Fleet) (Construction); Atlassian Central (Construction); Central Place Sydney (Approved); and Oxford & Foley Mixed-Use Precinct (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Surry Hills SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Residential Development, and Transport & Logistics, among others.
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.
Surry Hills 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 | 17,205 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +8.7% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 62nd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 13,070 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 99th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | -0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 15,828 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 1,377 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 1.32 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Surry Hills SA2 was estimated to be approximately 17,205 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 17,184 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The surry hills sa2 has added approximately 1,377 people and shown a 8.70% increase from the 15,828 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Surry Hills SA2 is estimated at 13,034 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Surry Hills SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of -0.2% per annum.
Population growth in the Surry Hills SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (99.5%), Natural increase (0.5%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 99.5% of overall population gains.
Surry Hills's population is younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 34 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 21st percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 9.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 5.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 43.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 74.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 35 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 2.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 2.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 9.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 34.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 20.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 11.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 9.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 5.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 2.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Surry Hills SA2 at 34 years as at August 2026. That is down from the 2021 Census figure of 35 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 34 years as at August 2026, Surry Hills is 3 years younger than the Greater Sydney 2021 Census average (37 years) and 4 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Surry Hills SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 34.1% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Surry Hills SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 2.8% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Surry Hills SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Sydney. The most over-represented age groups are 25-34 year-olds (34.1% vs 16.2%) and 35-44 year-olds (20.6% vs 15.2%). The most under-represented age groups are 5-14 year-olds (2.8% vs 11.8%) and 0-4 year-olds (2.7% vs 5.5%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 5.4% of the population in the Surry Hills SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 9.9% of the population in the Surry Hills SA2 as at August 2026.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 86% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $72,475 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 89th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $131,159 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,308 | 2021 Census, weekly | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,442 | 2021 Census, weekly | 97th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 39.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $3,551 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 17.8% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Surry Hills SA2 is approximately $77,099. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $72,475.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Surry Hills SA2 is approximately $139,527. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $131,159.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Surry Hills SA2 is approximately $77,099 compared to $67,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $72,475 and $63,183 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Surry Hills SA2 is approximately $139,527 compared to $92,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $131,159 and $86,684 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Surry Hills SA2's households (~29.2% / 2,273 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Surry Hills SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.2% of households. In comparison, Greater Sydney's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 30.9% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Surry Hills SA2 is $2,308/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Surry Hills SA2 is $3,551/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Surry Hills SA2 is $1,442/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the Surry Hills SA2 is among the top percentile nationally, with the median assessed at $72,475 while the average income stands at $131,159. This contrasts to Greater Sydney's figures of a median income of $63,183 and an average income of $86,684. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $77,099 (median) and $139,527 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Surry Hills SA2 is $7,868 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The surry hills sa2's disposable income is $7,868 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Surry Hills has seen below average employment performance when compared to national benchmarks.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 5.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 75.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 11,600 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 28,465 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 12,214 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Surry Hills SA2 has approximately 11,600 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 5.0%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Surry Hills SA2 stands at 5.0%, which is 0.9 percentage points above Greater Sydney's rate of 4.2%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Surry Hills SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are professional & technical (23.2% of employment), finance & insurance (11.6%), and health care & social assistance (9.6%). Other significant employers include accommodation & food and retail trade.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Surry Hills 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 Surry Hills SA2 is 75.0%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate leading the Greater Sydney average of 68.9%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
The surry hills sa2 shows notable specialisation in professional & technical, which employs 23.2% of the local workforce compared to 11.5% across Greater Sydney. With a local vs regional employment ratio of 2.0, this represents a significant industry cluster that likely serves markets beyond the local area. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The surry hills sa2's employment market shows below-average performance in national comparisons. While employment opportunities exist, the area faces more challenges than many other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 3.8% decline, ranking 32nd out of 37 regions nationally.
Surry Hills shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 41.1% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 18.1% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 62.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 8.3% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.6% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.9% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 19.0% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 24.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 10.9% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 3.1% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 2.0% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
62.8% of people aged 15 and over in the Surry Hills SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in Greater Sydney.
19.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Surry Hills SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% in Greater Sydney.
The surry hills sa2 ranks in the 88th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Surry Hills SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (41.1%), Postgraduate (18.1%), Advanced Diploma (9.9%).
24.7% of the population in the Surry Hills SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 3.1% in primary school, 2.0% in secondary school, 10.9% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Surry Hills SA2 is 1120, indicating above-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 5 schools within the Surry Hills SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,900 students.
The surry hills sa2 includes 3 primary schools, 2 secondary schools.
Surry Hills features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 1.8 people | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 46.8% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 7.4% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 29.3% | 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 3.1% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 12.2% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 7,776 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 8,452 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 40.9% | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 0.5 per family | 2021 Census | 1st percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Surry Hills SA2 had 7,776 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 8.7% to an estimated 8,452 households today.
The average household size in the Surry Hills SA2 is 1.8 people. This compares to 2.7 in Greater Sydney and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 40.9% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (46.8%), group households (12.2%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 3,180 family households, couples with children account for 7.4% of all households, couples without children at home 29.3%, and single parent families 3.1%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Sydney, the Surry Hills SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 46.8% (versus 23.2% in Greater Sydney). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 40.9% compared to 72.6% in Greater Sydney. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Marriage patterns reveal 19.5% of the adult population are currently married, while 68.4% have never married. This compares to 48.3% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Sydney.
Single-person households represent 46.8% of all households in the Surry Hills SA2, higher than 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 12.2% of households, above the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Surry Hills is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 47.5% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 27.7% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 72.3% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 69.7% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 52.5% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.7% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
Surry Hills scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 27.7% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 47.5% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Surry Hills, at 28.0% of people, although more residents (61.6%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 1.3% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Greater Sydney.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Surry Hills are English, comprising 22.8% of the population, Other, comprising 15.1% of the population, and Australian, comprising 14.7% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: French is notably overrepresented at 1.6% of Surry Hills (vs 0.5% across Greater Sydney), Spanish at 1.2% (vs 0.6%) and Russian at 0.9% (vs 0.4%).
47.5% of the Surry Hills SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% across Greater Sydney.
27.7% of the population in the Surry Hills SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in Greater Sydney.
0.7% of the Surry Hills SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in Greater Sydney.
69.7% of the Surry Hills SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in Greater Sydney.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Surry Hills features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 67.0% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 14.1% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 68.9% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,839 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 94th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 18.9% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 29.2% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $550 | 2021 Census, weekly | 94th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 23.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 75th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 28.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 82nd percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 1.1 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
In the Surry Hills SA2, 14.1% of homes are owned outright, 18.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 67.0% are rented.
According to the latest data, 1.1% of dwellings in the Surry Hills SA2 are houses.
In the Surry Hills SA2, 68.9% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 29.2% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Surry Hills SA2 stands at 14.1%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Surry Hills SA2 is $2,839, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Surry Hills SA2 is $2,133, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Surry Hills SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 28.4% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 23.8% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Surry Hills SA2 is 1.1, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Surry Hills SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 28.4% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% in Greater Sydney), while renters spend 23.8% of income on rent (vs 22.6% in Greater Sydney).
The dwelling mix in the Surry Hills SA2 consists of 1.1% detached houses, 29.2% semi-detached dwellings, 68.9% apartments, and 0.8% other dwelling types.
Housing in Surry Hills consumes approximately 21.3% of median household income ($9,994 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Development activity remains minimal in this area with fewer than 5 recent applications recorded.
Health performance in Surry Hills is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 79.2% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 97th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 74.6% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 3.7% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 78.4% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.8% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
Around 79.2% of people in the Surry Hills SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.8% in Greater Sydney.
In the Surry Hills SA2, 3.7% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
7.0% of people in the Surry Hills SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.4% of the population across Greater Sydney is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.4% of the Surry Hills SA2 population, while in Greater Sydney, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.4% of people in the Surry Hills SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Sydney,3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Surry Hills SA2, 79.2% 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 | 98 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 98th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 47 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 40th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 21,394 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 99th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 366 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 25 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 0.2 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 63.2% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 47 public transport stops within the Surry Hills SA2.
The Surry Hills SA2 has 21,394 weekly trips across 25 routes, averaging 3,056 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 114 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest GP is 216 m away and the nearest pharmacy 226 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 47 stops nearby, 21,394 weekly trips, access rating 98 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 99 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 99th percentile nationally |
| Nearest GP | 216 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 224 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 226 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest child care | 260 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest school | 268 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 296 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 325 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 546 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 692 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 697 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 829 m | 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 5 long day care centres with 300 places in Surry Hills, about 1.5 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Surry Hills is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Surry Hills.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity is lower than average in Surry Hills compared with local real estate markets nationally.
Surry Hills ranks in the 61st percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Surry Hills's established property market has recorded 402 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 92% residential and 8% commercial transactions.
Surry Hills is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
Surry Hills's population is younger than the national pattern.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 86% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
Surry Hills has seen below average employment performance when compared to national benchmarks.
Surry Hills shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
Surry Hills features high concentrations of lone person households and group households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
Surry Hills is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Surry Hills features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Sydney.
Health performance in Surry Hills is lower than the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Surry Hills has an estimated 17,205 residents, up 8.7% since the 2021 Census, with 16 projects tracked in Surry Hills.
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 Surry Hills.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Oct 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to 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 (117031336). 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 Surry Hills 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 Surry Hills 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.
