Chart Color Schemes
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.
est. as @ -- *
ABS ERP | -- people | --
2021 Census | -- people
Sales Activity
Curious about local property values? Filter the chart to assess the volume and appreciation (including resales) trends and regional comparisons, or scroll to the map below view this information at an individual property level.
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Sales Detail
What it costs to rent in Surry Hills
Median weekly rents, year-on-year movement and bond-lodgement activity for Surry Hills (2010). Sourced from the NSW Rental Bond Board, DCJ Family & Community Services.
Median rent
$800
per week · Q4 2025
YoY change
▲+11.1%
vs same quarter last year
Active bonds
≈4,965
est. · currently held
New bonds
≈377
est. · this quarter
Latest Quarter Breakdown · Q4 2025
| Dwelling | Bedrooms | Median $/wk | Active bonds | New bonds (Qtr) | YoY | Quality |
|---|
SOURCE: NSW Rental Bond Board (DCJ Family & Community Services), processed by AreaSearch. Imputed values are flagged. Latest publication:
Population
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' population was approximately 17,184 as of May 2026, reflecting an increase of 1,356 people since the 2021 Census. This increase represents an 8.6% growth from the previous census figure of 15,828 people. The change was inferred from ABS estimates and new address validations between June 2025 and the Census date. Surry Hills' population density was around 13,018 persons per square kilometer, placing it in the top 10% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch. This high density contributed to the area's status as a highly sought resource for land. The suburb's population growth of 8.6% since the 2021 Census exceeded both the state (7.1%) and Greater Sydney, marking it as a growth leader in the region.
Overseas migration was the primary driver behind this growth during recent periods. AreaSearch adopted ABS/Geoscience Australia projections for each SA2 area, released in 2024 with 2022 as the base year. For areas not covered by this data, AreaSearch used NSW State Government's SA2 level projections, released in 2022 with 2021 as the base year. Growth rates by age group from these aggregations were applied to all areas for years 2032 to 2041. Based on projected demographic shifts, Surry Hills was expected to experience above median population growth nationally. By 2041, the area's population was projected to increase by 2,260 persons, reflecting a total increase of 13.2% over the 16-year period, according to the latest annual ERP population numbers.
Frequently Asked Questions - Population
Development
The level of residential development activity in Surry Hills is very low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally by AreaSearch
Surry Hills averaged approximately eight new dwelling approvals per year from FY21 to FY25, with a total of 40 homes approved during this period. Five additional dwellings have been approved in FY26 so far. The population has declined recently, suggesting that the new supply has likely kept pace with demand, providing good options for buyers.
The average construction cost value of new homes is $121,000, which is below regional levels, indicating more affordable housing choices. In FY26, commercial development approvals totaled $178.8 million, reflecting robust local business investment. Compared to Greater Sydney, Surry Hills has shown significantly reduced construction activity, with 92.0% fewer approvals per person on average. This constraint typically reinforces demand and pricing for existing homes, which is also below the national average, suggesting maturity in the area and possible planning constraints. Recent development has exclusively consisted of attached dwellings, catering to downsizers, investors, and entry-level buyers seeking accessible entry options.
According to AreaSearch's latest quarterly estimate, Surry Hills is projected to grow by 2,260 residents by 2041. If current development rates persist, housing supply may not keep up with population growth, potentially increasing competition among buyers and supporting stronger price growth in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions - Development
Development applications around Surry Hills
Loading development applications…
| Lodged | Address | Description | Type | Distance | Status |
|---|
SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.
Infrastructure
Surry Hills has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 30% nationally
Changes in local infrastructure significantly affect an area's performance. AreaSearch has identified 61 projects expected to influence the area. Notable ones are Sydney Jewish Museum Redevelopment, Marlborough House Redevelopment, Central Place Sydney, and The Post House. Relevant projects are listed below.
Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.
INFRASTRUCTURE SEARCH
Denotes AI-based impression for illustrative purposes only, not to be taken as definitive under any circumstances. Please follow links and conduct other investigations from the project's source for actual imagery. Developers and project owners wishing us to use original imagery please Contact Us and we will do so.
Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure
Tech Central Innovation Precinct
Tech Central is Australia's largest innovation precinct, a six square kilometre district linking Haymarket, Ultimo, Surry Hills, Camperdown, Darlington, North Eveleigh and South Eveleigh. It includes technology companies, startups, research institutes, universities and venture capital networks. Current delivery includes the operational Tech Central Innovation Hub at 477 Pitt Street, the Atlassian Central tower under construction beside Central Station, and the approved Central Precinct rezoning enabling about 950 homes, 2400 jobs and 13500 square metres of open space.
Central Place Sydney
A $3 billion flagship commercial development serving as the centrepiece of Sydney Tech Central. The project comprises approximately 155,000sqm of commercial and retail space across two sustainable office towers (37 and 39 storeys) and a low-rise 8-storey building known as the Connector. Designed by SOM and Fender Katsalidis, the development features AI-powered closed cavity facades, 100% renewable energy operations, and extensive public realm improvements connecting to Central Station.
The Post House
A 45-storey mixed-use tower in the Tech Central precinct, also known as TOGA Central. The development integrates the heritage-listed former Parcels Post Office and delivers 29,228sqm of premium office space, a 204-key boutique hotel, and ground-floor/podium retail. Key features include a rooftop pool, day spa, gym, and the new public Henry Deane Plaza. The project targets a 6-star Green Star and 5.5-star NABERS Energy rating.
Mariyung Fleet (New Intercity Fleet)
The Mariyung Fleet is a 610-carriage double-deck electric train fleet (D sets) replacing the ageing V-set and Oscar fleets across the NSW intercity network. Delivered by the RailConnect NSW consortium (UGL, Hyundai Rotem, Mitsubishi Electric Australia), the trains feature wider 2x2 seating with arm rests, tray tables and cup holders, charging ports, dedicated luggage, pram and bicycle spaces, accessible toilets, dedicated wheelchair spaces, CCTV, digital information screens and Automatic Selective Door Operation. The fleet operates in 4, 6, 8 or 10-car formations. Passenger services commenced on the Central Coast & Newcastle Line on 3 December 2024, on the Blue Mountains Line on 13 October 2025, and on the South Coast Line on 14 April 2026. The South Coast Line rollout begins with seven 4 and 6-car sets, scaling to 16 trains by 2027 with 8-car sets later in 2026 and 10-car configurations in 2027. The project includes the Kangy Angy Maintenance Facility (operated by UGL on a 15-year contract) and extensive corridor upgrades including platform extensions, signalling modifications, balise installation and overhead wiring works.
Atlassian Central
Atlassian Central is a 39-storey, 183-metre tower under construction at 8-10 Lee Street, Haymarket, anchoring the NSW Government's Tech Central innovation precinct adjacent to Central Station. Designed by SHoP Architects and BVN, the building combines a steel exoskeleton with a hybrid mass timber and concrete structure, featuring seven four-storey internal timber 'habitats' built using more than 30,000 cubic metres of cross-laminated timber and glulam. Once complete, it will be the world's tallest commercial hybrid timber building. The tower offers 75,000 square metres of gross floor area (around 59,100 square metres net lettable) and is co-owned by Dexus and Atlassian. The lower five levels integrate a 137-room YHA hostel and the heritage-listed Parcel Shed, which is being adaptively re-used as the building lobby. Sustainability targets include a 50 percent reduction in embodied carbon, 100 percent renewable energy operation, a 5.5-star NABERS Energy commitment and a 6-star Green Star target, supported by an electricity-generating photovoltaic facade. Built and Obayashi Corporation joint venture (BOJV) commenced construction in August 2022. As of mid-2026 the tower has surpassed Milwaukee's Ascent to become the world's tallest hybrid timber tower, with Level 39 top-out scheduled for June 2026 and practical completion targeted for November 2026. Atlassian is expected to occupy five of the seven habitats from late 2028 following fit-out.
Oxford & Foley
Oxford & Foley is a heritage-led mixed-use redevelopment of three commercial blocks at 60, 90 and 120 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst, delivered by AsheMorgan and TOGA Group on a 99-year leasehold from the City of Sydney. Designed by fjcstudio, the project restores three turn-of-the-century heritage buildings and adds new rooftop levels with city and harbour views, alongside a reactivated retail and dining laneway on Foley Street. The precinct provides about 9,200 square metres of commercial office space, 2,300 square metres of bespoke retail across some 30 tenancies, and 1,600 square metres for cultural and creative uses. Sony Music Entertainment, Sony Music Publishing and The Orchard are anchor commercial tenants, alongside customer research firm Dovetail. Confirmed retail and hospitality operators include MAAP, Mapo gelato, Mecca Coffee, Theeca, Paulies Pizza, the Darlinghurst Bookshop and Alpha60. Construction commenced in 2022 with original builder Growthbuilt; following disputes and delays, TOGA took over construction in 2024 and the developers lodged a 91.7 million dollar claim against Growthbuilt in 2025. Staged handovers are underway, with the western Building 1 tenants taking possession from mid-2025, Building 2 in late 2025 and the eastern Building 3 stage rolling through into 2026.
Sydney Jewish Museum Redevelopment
Major expansion and redevelopment doubling the museum's footprint to include a new Centre for Contemporary Jewish Life and Tolerance alongside the existing Holocaust Museum. The project will create 11 new exhibition galleries and modern education facilities. The museum is currently closed to general public from January 2025 to late 2026, with construction underway. Expected to open early 2027 with capacity to welcome 100,000 visitors annually, nearly double current visitation. The expanded facility will feature state-of-the-art, tech-enabled galleries and educational spaces, new exhibitions celebrating Jewish history, culture and contributions to Australia, and enhanced Holocaust education programs responding to NSW's compulsory Holocaust studies curriculum from 2027.
Crown Street Upgrade
A $34 million upgrade of Crown Street between Oxford and Devonshire Streets, Surry Hills, including wider footpaths, underground utilities, new trees, bike lanes, and improved accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists.
Employment
Surry Hills shows employment indicators that trail behind approximately 70% of regions assessed across Australia
Surry Hills has a highly educated workforce with notable representation in the technology sector. As of December 2025, its unemployment rate was 5.8%. Over the past year, employment remained relatively stable.
In Surry Hills, 11,329 residents were employed, with an unemployment rate of 6.4% (1.6% higher than Greater Sydney's rate of 4.2%). Workforce participation was high at 73.9%, compared to Greater Sydney's 68.8%. According to Census responses, 63.2% of residents worked from home. The dominant employment sectors in Surry Hills were professional & technical, finance & insurance, and health care & social assistance.
The area had a strong specialization in professional & technical services, with an employment share 2.0 times the regional level. Conversely, construction showed lower representation at 3.3% compared to the regional average of 8.6%. With 2.0 workers for every resident as per Census data, Surry Hills functioned as an employment hub, hosting more jobs than residents and attracting workers from surrounding areas. Over a 12-month period ending in December 2025, labour force decreased by 0.3% while employment also decreased by 0.3%, keeping the unemployment rate relatively stable. Jobs and Skills Australia's national employment forecasts from May-25 suggest that Surry Hills' employment should increase by 7.4% over five years and 14.7% over ten years, based on a simple weighting extrapolation of industry-specific projections applied to Surry Hills' employment mix.
Frequently Asked Questions - Employment
Income
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 75% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for financial year 2023 shows that Surry Hills SA2 has exceptionally high national incomes. The median income is $72,371 and the average income stands at $110,107. This contrasts with Greater Sydney's figures of a median income of $60,817 and an average income of $83,003. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% since financial year 2023, current estimates would be approximately $79,840 (median) and $121,470 (average) as of March 2026. According to the 2021 Census figures, incomes in Surry Hills rank highly nationally, between the 83rd and 97th percentiles for household, family, and personal incomes. Income brackets indicate that 29.2% of locals (5,017 people) predominantly fall into the $1,500 - 2,999 category, aligning with regional trends where this cohort also represents 30.9%. Notably, 39.6% earn above $3,000 weekly, reflecting prosperity pockets driving local economic activity. High housing costs consume 21.3% of income, but strong earnings place disposable income at the 75th percentile nationally. The area's SEIFA income ranking places it in the 9th decile.
Frequently Asked Questions - Income
Housing
Surry Hills features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than the broader region
The dwelling structure in Surry Hills, as per the latest Census, consisted of 1.1% houses and 98.9% other dwellings (semi-detached, apartments, 'other' dwellings). This contrasted with Sydney metro's figures of 55.9% houses and 44.1% other dwellings. Home ownership in Surry Hills stood at 14.1%, with mortgaged dwellings at 18.9% and rented ones at 67.0%. The median monthly mortgage repayment in the area was $2,839, higher than Sydney metro's average of $2,427. The median weekly rent figure for Surry Hills was $550, compared to Sydney metro's $470. Nationally, Surry Hills's mortgage repayments were significantly higher at $1,863 and rents substantially above the national average of $375.
Frequently Asked Questions - Housing
Household Composition
Surry Hills features high concentrations of lone person households and group households, with a lower-than-average median household size
Family households account for 40.9% of all households, including 7.4% couples with children, 29.3% couples without children, and 3.1% single parent families. Non-family households constitute the remaining 59.1%, with lone person households at 46.8% and group households comprising 12.2% of the total. The median household size is 1.8 people, which is smaller than the Greater Sydney average of 2.7.
Frequently Asked Questions - Households
Local Schools & Education
Surry Hills shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators
Surry Hills' educational attainment is notably higher than national averages. Among residents aged 15+, 62.8% possess university qualifications, compared to Australia's 30.4% and NSW's 32.2%. Bachelor degrees are the most common (41.1%), followed by postgraduate qualifications (18.1%) and graduate diplomas (3.6%). Vocational pathways account for 18.2%, with advanced diplomas at 9.9% and certificates at 8.3%.
A significant 24.7% of the population is currently pursuing formal education, including 10.9% in tertiary, 3.1% in primary, and 2.0% in secondary education.
Frequently Asked Questions - Education
Schools Detail
Nearby Services & Amenities
Transport
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility
Public transport analysis reveals 47 active transport stops operating within Surry Hills. These comprise a mix of train, light rail, and bus services. They are serviced by 28 individual routes, collectively providing 23,681 weekly passenger trips. Transport accessibility is rated as excellent, with residents typically located 114 meters from the nearest transport stop. As a primarily residential area, most residents commute outward. Walking is notably common at 31%, with 18% by train.
Vehicle ownership averages 0.2 per dwelling, below the regional average. According to the 2021 Census, 63.2% of residents work from home, which may reflect COVID-19 conditions. Service frequency averages 3,383 trips per day across all routes, equating to approximately 503 weekly trips per individual stop.
Frequently Asked Questions - Transport
Transport Stops Detail
Health
Health performance in Surry Hills is lower than average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts
Surry Hills faces significant health challenges based on AreaSearch's assessment. Mortality rates and chronic condition prevalence are somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts. The rate of private health cover is exceptionally high at approximately 75% of the total population (12,939 people), compared to 59.9% across Greater Sydney and a national average of 55.7%.
The most common medical conditions are mental health issues impacting 10.1% of residents and asthma impacting 7.0%, while 74.6% declare themselves completely clear of medical ailments, similar to the 74.6% across Greater Sydney. The under-65 population demonstrates better than average health outcomes. The area has 9.8% of residents aged 65 and over (1,690 people), lower than the 15.5% in Greater Sydney. Health outcomes among seniors are particularly strong, with national rankings even higher than the general population.
Frequently Asked Questions - Health
Cultural Diversity
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 has a high level of cultural diversity, with 27.7% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 47.5% born overseas. Christianity is the predominant religion in Surry Hills, making up 28.0% of people. Judaism is overrepresented compared to Greater Sydney, comprising 1.3% of Surry Hills' population versus 0.8%.
The top three ancestry groups are English at 22.8%, Other at 15.1%, and Australian at 14.7%. French (1.6%), Spanish (1.2%), and Russian (0.9%) ethnicities are notably overrepresented in Surry Hills compared to regional averages of 0.5%, 0.6%, and 0.4% respectively.
Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity
Age
Surry Hills's population is younger than the national pattern
Surry Hills has a median age of 34 years, which is lower than Greater Sydney's average of 37 and Australia's national average of 38. Compared to Greater Sydney, Surry Hills has a higher proportion of residents aged 25-34 (32.9%) but fewer residents aged 5-14 (2.9%). This concentration of 25-34 year-olds is significantly higher than the national average of 14.6%. Between the 2021 Census and the present, the proportion of residents aged 15 to 24 has increased from 9.4% to 11.2%, while the proportion of those aged 45 to 54 has decreased from 12.7% to 11.3%. By 2041, population forecasts indicate substantial demographic shifts in Surry Hills. The 45-54 age group is projected to grow by 34%, adding 665 residents to reach a total of 2,606. Conversely, the number of residents aged 35-44 is expected to decrease by 9%.