Surry Hills

SA2

Greater Sydney / Sydney Inner City

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Sep 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats 117031336 How we calculate this
Chart Color Schemes
Loading map data ...
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.

0 People

est. as @ -- *

ABS ERP | -- people | --

2021 Census | -- people

Land Area
--
Land Area
Population Density
--
Density
Unemployment Rate
--
Unemployment
Development
--
Resi Approvals
Get My Report

Sales ActivityProperty Sales Trends in Surry Hills

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

The median house price in Surry Hills is $2.48m, with units at $860k. House values have moved 2.9% a year compounded over five years.

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.

Median Price
$0
1yr Sales Volume
0
Find a Recent Sale
Type Specified (1) | Limit 50

Sales Detail

Loading rental data…

DemographicsPopulation Growth in Surry Hills

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

Surry Hills has an estimated 17,194 residents, up from 15,828 at the 2021 Census — a change of 1,366 people, or 8.6%. Overseas migration accounts for 99.5% of that increase. That puts 13,026 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

Demographic assessments by AreaSearch indicate that Surry Hills hosts roughly 17,194 residents as of Aug 2026. This represents an expansion of 1,366 people (8.6%) relative to the 15,828 people recorded in the 2021 Census. Such growth is calculated utilizing the ABS estimated resident population figure of 17,184 as of June 2025 alongside 54 validated new addresses added post-Census. With a density of 13,025 persons per square kilometer, the locality ranks in the upper 10% across all evaluated Australian locations, highlighting intense competition for residential space. Surry Hills's 8.6% increase since the 2021 census outpaced the state rate of 7.3%, establishing the suburb as a prominent regional growth pocket.

Inbound overseas migration served as the principal catalyst for these local population gains in recent times. Population projections for each SA2 incorporate 2024 ABS/Geoscience Australia models utilizing 2022 as their starting point, while areas omitted from that release rely upon 2022 NSW State Government SA2 figures based on 2021. For the period spanning 2032 to 2041, age-specific growth trajectories from these sources are integrated across all locations. Forward-looking demographic projections position the suburb above the nationwide median, projecting an addition of 2,245 persons to 2041 based on recent annual ERP totals, amounting to an overall 13.0% expansion over the 16 years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the Surry Hills SA2?
Total population for the Surry Hills SA2 was estimated to be approximately 17,194 as at Aug 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 17,184 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the Surry Hills SA2 changed since 2021?
The surry hills sa2 has added approximately 1,366 people and shown a 8.63% increase from the 15,828 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the Surry Hills SA2?
The population density in the Surry Hills SA2 is estimated at 13,025 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the Surry Hills SA2?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Surry Hills SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of -0.2% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the Surry Hills SA2?
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.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Surry Hills

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

Detail

Over the preceding 5 financial years, residential development in Surry Hills has yielded an average of around 2 building permits each year, totaling 11 homes. An influx of 13.2 people per year per completed home across the past 5 financial years (between FY-22 and FY-26) underscores a severe supply deficit against local demand, creating competitive conditions among buyers and upward price pressure. Developers have prioritized the luxury market, with new dwellings carrying an average expected construction cost of $938,000. Additionally, $178.8 million in commercial building approvals during this financial year underscores active commercial expansion.

Compared with Greater Sydney, building activity across Surry Hills remains subdued. The constrained volume of new construction generally bolsters values and interest across existing stock. Construction levels fall below the national standard as well, reflecting both the mature urban fabric and local zoning constraints. Furthermore, modern development is composed exclusively of medium and high-density formats, offering attainable purchasing options favored by downsizers, first-home purchasers, and investors. Demographic outlooks project an influx of 2,235 residents into Surry Hills through to 2041 according to the most recent AreaSearch quarterly estimate. Should the pace of residential construction persist at current levels, housing additions could fall short of resident inflows, likely intensifying buyer competition and reinforcing capital growth.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the Surry Hills SA2 recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the 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 17,194 has been supported by 2 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the Surry Hills SA2's development activity compare to the broader region?
The Surry Hills SA2 has seen 0.01 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.62 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 0 people in the Surry Hills SA2, compared to one for every 165 in the broader region.
Is the Surry Hills SA2 keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 2,235 people by 2041, around 1,118 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels may be insufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling. This indicates potential housing shortages if current approval trends continue.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the Surry Hills SA2?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Surry Hills SA2's approval levels have been slightly above the yearly average of 2, showing modest growth in recent years.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the Surry Hills SA2?
The population in the Surry Hills SA2 is expected to grow by 2,235 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 1,118 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 Surry Hills SA2?
Over the past five years, the population in the Surry Hills SA2 has grown by approximately 3,275 people, while 11 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 297.7 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the Surry Hills SA2?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 2 approvals per year and a population of 17,194, there appears to be a supply shortfall relative to projected demand, presenting strong opportunities for residential developers. With the population expected to increase by 2,235 people by 2041, around 1,118 new dwellings will be necessary. Current approval trends may be insufficient to meet forecast demand, indicating strong development opportunities.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Surry Hills

Development applications around Surry Hills

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.
Applications
In this area
Est. Value
Where disclosed
Under Assessment
Awaiting determination
Determined
Approved or decided
Approvals pipeline Status, location, timing and project scale
Search

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.

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Surry Hills

PROFILE FAQ

AreaSearch tracks 16 current infrastructure and development projects inside Surry Hills, worth an estimated $611 million. A further 184 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $175.6 billion. 49 are already under construction and 63 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 investment, urban planning frameworks, and major development works serve as pivotal drivers of neighborhood change. AreaSearch has pinpointed 61 projects poised to influence the immediate surroundings. Key undertakings comprise The Post House, Central Place Sydney, Marlborough House Redevelopment, and Sydney Jewish Museum Redevelopment, with leading initiatives itemized below.

Professional plan users can use the search below to filter and access additional projects.

INFRASTRUCTURE SEARCH
All Selected

AI Generated 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

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Surry Hills SA2?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Surry Hills SA2 include: Sydney Jewish Museum Redevelopment (Proposed); Marlborough House Redevelopment (Approved); Central Place Sydney (Construction); The Post House (Construction); and Mariyung Fleet (New Intercity Fleet) (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the Surry Hills SA2?
Infrastructure development impacting the Surry Hills SA2 spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Business Parks & Technology Hubs, and Transport & Logistics, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the Surry Hills SA2?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates substantial capital deployment exceeding $21.4 billion in projects that will impact the extended area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the Surry Hills SA2 vicinity.
How does the Surry Hills SA2's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
With an infrastructure score in the top 30%, the Surry Hills SA2 demonstrates above-average development activity compared to national benchmarks.
Mariyung Fleet (New Intercity Fleet)
Category: Transport & Logistics
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

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.

Transport & Logistics

Atlassian Central
Category: Business Parks & Technology Hubs
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

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.

Business Parks & Technology Hubs

Flinders St Heritage Transformation
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   

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. Sustainable features include integrated rooftop photovoltaic panels and upgraded building services.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

The Post House
Category: Business Parks & Technology Hubs
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

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.

Business Parks & Technology Hubs

Harbourside Redevelopment by Mirvac
Category: Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

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. The project delivers 87,000 sqm of gross floor area including 45,000 sqm of commercial and retail space and 42,000 sqm of residential in a 48-storey tower with approximately 260 luxury apartments and penthouses. The precinct features 10,000 sqm of public open space including a 3,500 sqm waterfront park, a widened promenade, a new laneway network, and 6,000 sqm of green roofs.A 4,000 sqm conference and events centre is also included. The tower core structure passed Level 20 as of late 2025 and the final major development application (SSDA No. 03 Public Domain) was approved by the Independent Planning Commission in June 2025. Staged completion is expected from 2026/2027. The precinct is designed by Snohetta and Hassell Studio.

Precincts & Urban Renewal

Sydney Jewish Museum Redevelopment
Category: Arts & Culture
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027

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. The museum remains closed to the general public during redevelopment, with reopening planned for late 2026 and the full expanded museum expected to open in early 2027. Recent additional government funding will deliver a Centre for Education Against Antisemitism as part of the redevelopment.

Arts & Culture

Cockle Bay Park (Cockle Bay Wharf Redevelopment)
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2029
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

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 CBD with the waterfront.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Central Place Sydney
Category: Commercial & Industrial
Stage: Approved | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   

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. Planning consent has been granted by the City of Sydney and the NSW Government.

Commercial & Industrial

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Surry Hills

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

11,572 residents of Surry Hills are employed, from a labour force of 12,185. Unemployment sits at 5.0%, with participation at 75.0%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 7.4% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth. The working-day population is estimated at 28,443, about 165% of the resident population, so the area draws in more workers than it sends out. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Surry Hills is characterized by a well-educated labor pool with notable concentration in the tech sector, an unemployment rate of 5.0%, and annual employment gains estimated at 2.3%. As of March 2026, employed residents total 11,572, while joblessness sits 0.9% higher than Greater Sydney's 4.1%. Labor participation remains notably high at 75.0% versus 68.9% for Greater Sydney. Census returns showed 63.2% of local workers operating from home, an outcome partially shaped by pandemic movement restrictions. Resident employment is primarily anchored in professional & technical services, finance & insurance, and health care & social assistance.

Specialization in professional & technical roles is pronounced, registering at 2.0 times the broader regional benchmark. Conversely, the construction sector accounts for only 3.3% of the resident workforce, trailing Greater Sydney's 8.6%. With 2.0 workers for every resident as at the Census, Surry Hills serves as a net employment destination, drawing commuters from across the metropolitan area. AreaSearch evaluation of ABS and SALM metrics indicates that in the year to March 2026, local employment expanded by 2.3% and the workforce grew by 1.3%, reducing the jobless rate by 1.0 percentage points. Over the same timeframe, Greater Sydney saw both employment and labor supply rise by 1.9%, alongside a slight decrease in unemployment. National employment projections from Jobs and Skills Australia as of Mar-26 provide further visibility into prospective demand across Surry Hills. When these five and ten-year national industry forecasts—which anticipate nationwide workforce increases of 6.6% and 13.7% respectively—are mapped to the local industry distribution, Surry Hills employment is modeled to rise by 7.4% over five years and 14.7% over ten years (representing an unadjusted weighting model for indicative purposes that excludes local population forecasts).

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the Surry Hills SA2?
As of March 2026, the Surry Hills SA2 has approximately 11,572 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.
How does the Surry Hills SA2's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 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 4.1%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
What are the major employment sectors in the Surry Hills SA2?
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.
How has employment changed recently in the Surry Hills SA2?
Over the past year to March 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 fall. By comparison, Greater Sydney saw employment increased and its unemployment rate dropped.
What is the workforce participation rate in the Surry Hills SA2?
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.
Which industries are over-represented in the Surry Hills SA2's employment market?
The surry hills sa2 shows notable specialization in professional & technical, which employs 23.2% of the local workforce compared to 11.5% regionally. 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.
What are the employment growth prospects for the Surry Hills SA2?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the Surry Hills SA2's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 7.4% over the next five years and 14.7% 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 Surry Hills SA2 compare nationally?
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 5.9% decline, ranking 29.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the Surry Hills SA2?
Skilled workers will find excellent opportunities in the Surry Hills SA2, with knowledge-intensive sectors comprising 56.3% of local employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include professional & technical (23.2%), finance & insurance (11.6%), and health care & social assistance (9.6%). With projected employment growth of 7.4% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Surry Hills

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

Median household income in Surry Hills is $2,308 a week (about $120,000 a year), with median personal income at $1,442 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $72,371 a year against an average of $110,107. The average runs 52% 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

Taxation records compiled by AreaSearch for financial year 2023 place Surry Hills SA2 within an upper income bracket nationally. Taxpayers in Surry Hills SA2 recorded a median income of $72,371 alongside an average income of $110,107, outstripping the corresponding Greater Sydney benchmarks of $60,817 and $83,003. Applying a 10.32% rise in the Wage Price Index since financial year 2023 yields updated March 2026 estimates of roughly $79,840 (median) and $121,470 (average). In the 2021 Census, personal, family, and household earnings all tracked between the 83rd and 97th percentiles across Australia.

Weekly earnings of $1,500 - 2,999 account for 29.2% of local earners (5,020 individuals), aligning closely with the 30.9% regional rate. Furthermore, 39.6% take home upwards of $3,000 per week, underpinning substantial local consumer spending. Even with housing obligations absorbing 21.3% of earnings, disposable income sits in the 75th percentile and the suburb achieves an income ranking in the 9th decile on the SEIFA index.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the Surry Hills SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Surry Hills SA2 is approximately $79,840. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $72,371.
What is the average taxable income in the Surry Hills SA2?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Surry Hills SA2 is approximately $121,470. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $110,107.
How does the median taxable income in the Surry Hills SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Surry Hills SA2 is approximately $79,840 compared to $67,093 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $72,371 and $60,817 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the Surry Hills SA2 compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Surry Hills SA2 is approximately $121,470 compared to $91,569 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $110,107 and $83,003 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the Surry Hills SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~29.2% / 5,020 persons) of the Surry Hills SA2's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the Surry Hills SA2 compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the Surry Hills SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.2% 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 Surry Hills SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the Surry Hills SA2 is $2,308/wk.
What is the median family income in the Surry Hills SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Surry Hills SA2 is $3,551/wk.
What is the median personal income in the Surry Hills SA2 according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Surry Hills SA2 is $1,442/wk.
How does the Surry Hills SA2's income rank nationally?
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-23, the Surry Hills SA2 had a median income among taxpayers of $72,371 with the average level standing at $110,107. This is exceptionally high 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 $79,840 (median) and $121,470 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the Surry Hills SA2?
The estimated disposable income in the Surry Hills SA2 is $7,868 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the Surry Hills SA2's disposable income compare to the region?
The surry hills sa2's disposable income is $7,868 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Surry Hills

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

Surry Hills had 7,776 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 1% detached houses and 69% apartments. 19% are owned with a mortgage, 67% rented and 14% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $550 a week and the median mortgage repayment $2,839 a month, a total housing cost higher than 98% of areas nationally. Rent absorbs 23.8% of household income here and mortgage repayments 28.4%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

According to the most recent Census, the Surry Hills dwelling stock was composed of 1.1% houses and 98.9% other dwellings (apartments, attached dwellings, and other types), contrasting with Sydney metro where houses accounted for 55.9% and other dwellings made up 44.1%. Full home ownership was lower than the metropolitan standard at 14.1%, while mortgaged properties accounted for 18.9% and rental accommodation comprised 67.0%. Typical monthly mortgage payments stood at $2,839 and median weekly rents reached $550, exceeding the Sydney metro medians of $2,427 and $470. Relative to Australia-wide figures, Surry Hills mortgage repayments substantially outpace the $1,863 national median, with rents tracking considerably above the Australian baseline of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the Surry Hills SA2?
In the Surry Hills SA2, 14.1% of homes are owned outright, 18.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 67.0% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the Surry Hills SA2 are houses?
According to the latest data, 1.1% of dwellings in the Surry Hills SA2 are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the Surry Hills SA2 are apartments or units?
In the Surry Hills SA2, 68.9% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 29.2% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the Surry Hills SA2?
Outright home ownership in the Surry Hills SA2 stands at 14.1%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the Surry Hills SA2?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Surry Hills SA2 is $2,839, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
What is the median weekly rent in the Surry Hills SA2?
The median weekly rent in the Surry Hills SA2 is $550, compared to $470 in Greater Sydney.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the Surry Hills SA2?
In the Surry Hills SA2, 10.4% of rentals are $0-149/week, 10.8% are $150-349/week, 43.3% are $350-649/week, 25.9% are $650-949/week, and 9.7% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the Surry Hills SA2?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Surry Hills SA2 is $2,133, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the Surry Hills SA2?
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.
How crowded are homes in the Surry Hills SA2?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Surry Hills SA2 is 1.1, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the Surry Hills SA2 compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the Surry Hills SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 28.4% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% regionally), while renters spend 23.8% of income on rent (vs 22.6% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the Surry Hills SA2?
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.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the Surry Hills SA2?
Considering the housing occupancy patterns, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $2,132. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $2,839/month, and renters paying $2,382/month.
How affordable is housing in the Surry Hills SA2 relative to local incomes?
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.
How do proposed developments compare to existing housing types in the Surry Hills SA2?
Development activity remains minimal in this area with fewer than 5 recent applications recorded.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Surry Hills

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

Surry Hills counted 7,776 households at the 2021 Census, an estimated 8,447 today, averaging 1.8 people each. 7% are couples with children, fewer than in 98% of areas nationally, against 29% couples without children. 47% of households are people living alone, and families average 0.5 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Family units account for 40.9% of local dwellings, made up of couples without children at 29.3%, couples with children at 7.4%, and single parent households at 3.1%. Non-family living arrangements represent the remaining 59.1%, led by single occupant homes at 46.8% and shared group households at 12.2%. The area records an average household size of 1.8 people, below the Greater Sydney figure of 2.7.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the Surry Hills SA2?
As of the 2021 Census, the Surry Hills SA2 had 7,776 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 8.6% to an estimated 8,447 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median 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.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 40.9% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (46.8%), group households (12.2%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 3,180 family households, 7.4% are couples with children, 29.3% are couples without children at home, and 3.1% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the Surry Hills SA2 compare to regional household patterns?
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% regionally). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 40.9% compared to the regional 72.6%. 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 Surry Hills SA2 have an average of 0.5 children, slightly below 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 Surry Hills SA2?
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.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 46.8% of all households in the Surry Hills SA2, higher than 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 12.2% of households, well below the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
Loading household composition data...

EducationSchools & Education in Surry Hills

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

62.8% of adults in Surry Hills hold a university qualification, including 41.1% with a bachelor degree and 18.1% with postgraduate qualifications, higher than 88% of areas nationally. A further 8.3% hold a vocational qualification. 5 schools serve the area, with 1,900 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 1,120 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

Levels of higher education in Surry Hills substantially outstrip broader regional benchmarks, with 62.8% of residents aged 15+ holding tertiary degrees, compared to 32.2% across NSW and 30.4% in Australia. This high concentration of tertiary credentials provides strong alignment with knowledge-intensive industries. Bachelor degrees represent the primary credential at 41.1%, accompanied by postgraduate awards at 18.1% and graduate diplomas at 3.6%. Technical and vocational training encompasses 18.2% of qualifications among residents aged 15+, comprising advanced diplomas at 9.9% and certificates at 8.3%. Formal study engages 24.7% of the local populace.

Higher education institutions account for 10.9% of residents, while primary schooling comprises 3.1% and secondary education involves 2.0%.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the Surry Hills SA2 have university qualifications?
62.8% of people aged 15 and over in the Surry Hills SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the Surry Hills SA2 have no formal qualifications?
19.0% of people aged 15 and over in the Surry Hills SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% regionally.
How does the Surry Hills SA2's education level compare to national averages?
The surry hills sa2 ranks in the 88th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the Surry Hills SA2?
The most common qualifications in the Surry Hills SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (41.1%), Postgraduate (18.1%), Advanced Diploma (9.9%).
What proportion of the Surry Hills SA2's population is currently attending educational institutions?
24.7% of the population in the Surry Hills SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, with 3.1% in primary school, 2.0% in secondary school, 10.9% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the Surry Hills SA2?
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.
How many schools are located within the Surry Hills SA2?
There are 5 schools within the Surry Hills SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 1,900 students.
What types of schools are available in the Surry Hills SA2?
The surry hills sa2 includes 3 primary schools, 2 secondary schools.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Surry Hills

PROFILE FAQ
Explore the surrounds Search this catchment for any place type — schools, cafés, supermarkets, transport — and drop your own custom points on the map.
Open

Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Surry Hills

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

Public transport in Surry Hills reaches 47 stops on 25 routes, timetabled for about 21,400 services a week. The typical home sits about 110 m from its nearest stop. Buses carry the largest share of public transport commuters. Households keep an average of 0.2 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 transit infrastructure in Surry Hills includes 47 operational passenger stops integrating train, bus, and light rail networks. Across 25 distinct transit lines, these facilities deliver 21,394 scheduled passenger journeys every week. Accessibility across the network is high, with properties located an average distance of 114 meters from the nearest stop. Given the suburb's residential footprint, commuting patterns lean outward, with 31% of residents walking to work and 18% taking the train. Private vehicle ownership sits below regional norms at an average of 0.2 cars per household. A notable 63.2% of employed locals worked remotely according to the 2021 Census, which coincided with pandemic restrictions.

Network scheduling delivers an average of 3,056 services daily across all operating lines, translating to roughly 455 departures per week per stop.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Surry Hills?
There are 47 public transport stops within the Surry Hills SA2.
How frequent are the transport services in Surry Hills?
the Surry Hills SA2 has 21,394 weekly trips across 25 routes, averaging 3,056 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Surry Hills?
On average, residential properties are 114 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Surry Hills

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

74.6% of residents in Surry Hills report no long-term health condition. 3.7% need daily assistance with core activities, and 75.3% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 7.9 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Health analysis by AreaSearch notes identifiable healthcare needs based on chronic illness and mortality data, with routine medical conditions present across both younger and older cohorts, while private health insurance uptake is notably strong at roughly 75% of residents (12,947 people). In contrast, private cover rates sit at 59.9% across Greater Sydney and 55.7% throughout Australia. Asthma and mental health conditions represent the most prevalent diagnoses, recorded by 7.0% and 10.1% of the community, while 74.6% reported no ongoing medical conditions, matching the 74.6% recorded across Greater Sydney. Population cohorts under 65 exhibit favorable overall health measures.

Seniors aged 65 and over constitute 9.9% of the population (1,697 people), below the 15.5% observed across Greater Sydney, with older residents registering particularly positive health indicators relative to national benchmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the Surry Hills SA2 have private health insurance?
Around 75.3% of people in the Surry Hills 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 Surry Hills SA2?
In the Surry Hills SA2, 3.7% 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 Surry Hills SA2?
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.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the Surry Hills SA2?
Diabetes affects 2.4% of the the Surry Hills 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 Surry Hills SA2?
2.4% of people in the Surry Hills SA2 have heart disease. Across the region of Greater Sydney, 3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the Surry Hills SA2 compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the Surry Hills SA2, 75.3% 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 Surry Hills

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

47.5% of Surry Hills residents were born overseas and 27.7% speak a language other than English at home, more culturally diverse than 82% of areas nationally. The largest reported ancestries are English (22.8%) and Australian (14.7%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Surry Hills reflects a broad demographic mix, with 47.5% of residents born abroad and 27.7% communicating in a language other than English at home. Christianity represents the leading religious affiliation, claimed by 28.0% of local inhabitants. The Jewish community shows the most pronounced relative representation, accounting for 1.3% of the suburb compared to 0.8% across Greater Sydney. Evaluating ancestral background through parents' country of birth, the primary groups consist of English heritage at 22.8%, Other backgrounds at 15.1%, and Australian ancestry at 14.7%. Specific ethnic representations diverge from metropolitan averages, including French ancestry at 1.6% (compared to 0.5% regionally), Spanish at 1.2% (vs 0.6%), and Russian at 0.9% (vs 0.4%).

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the Surry Hills SA2?
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.
What is the most common religion in the Surry Hills SA2?
The main religion in Surry Hills was found to be Christianity, which makes up 28.0% of people in Surry Hills. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 1.3% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Greater Sydney.
What are the top countries of origin in the Surry Hills SA2?
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% regionally), Spanish at 1.2% (vs 0.6%) and Russian at 0.9% (vs 0.4%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
47.5% of the the Surry Hills SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% regionally.
What percentage of the the Surry Hills SA2 population speaks a language other than English at home?
27.7% of the population in the Surry Hills SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in the wider region.
How many people in the Surry Hills SA2 identify as Australian Aboriginal?
0.7% of the the Surry Hills SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the Surry Hills SA2?
69.7% of the the Surry Hills SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Surry Hills

Table Chart PROFILE FAQ

The median resident of Surry Hills is 34, younger than 79% of areas nationally. That is 1 year younger than at the 2021 Census. 43.9% 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 demographic profile of Surry Hills leans heavily toward childless young adults. Residents aged 25 - 44 account for 54.7% of the populace as at August 2026, compared to 31.4% throughout Greater Sydney, while youth aged 0 - 24 represent 15.3% versus 30.4% regionally. AreaSearch determines the median age at 34 as at August 2026, dropping from 35 at the 2021 Census and sitting 3 years lower than the Greater Sydney median of 37 recorded during that Census. The most noticeable cohort shift since the Census occurred in the 25 - 44 age bracket, rising from 52.3% to an estimated 54.7%.

By 2041, residents aged 45 - 64 are projected to drive the largest absolute increase, expanding by 1,047 individuals (30%) to reach 4,517, while the 65+ age category will record the steepest rate of expansion, increasing 59% to 2,704.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the Surry Hills SA2?
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.
How does the Surry Hills SA2's median age compare to broader areas?
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).
What age groups are over-represented in the Surry Hills SA2?
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.
What age groups are under-represented in the Surry Hills SA2?
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.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the Surry Hills SA2 show significant variance compared to the Greater Sydney region. 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%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the Surry Hills SA2?
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 5.4% of the population in the Surry Hills SA2 as at August 2026.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the Surry Hills SA2?
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 9.9% of the population in the Surry Hills SA2 as at August 2026.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Surry Hills

Data currency Refreshed

9 of 14 data sections on this page were updated within the last 12 months — the newest current to Sep 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) Aug 2026 last month 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 Aug 2026, with the 2021 Census supplying the small-area baseline.
Age profile ABS, Geoscience Australia, State governments Annual Aug 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Age cohorts are re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections, current to Aug 2026. Each cohort is held as a Census baseline and a current estimate.
Development & approvals ABS, GNAF Monthly (ABS approvals) Aug 2026 last month headline measures · Jul 2026 baseline
Property sales & rents Valuer General, Rental Board, ABS Weekly sales, quarterly rents Sep 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 Sep 2026.
Infrastructure projects Infrastructure Australia, State agencies, Local governments Daily Sep 2026 this month all 16 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 Sep 2026.
Employment ABS, DEWR, JSA Quarterly (ABS SALM) Mar 2026 6 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) Aug 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Transport ABS, State Transport Departments Each timetable release Jul 2026 2 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Services & amenities Provider directories, ACECQA Continuous Jul 2026 2 months ago 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 — 54 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for Aug 2026, not a 2021 count (15,828 at the 2021 Census → 17,194 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 Aug 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 (117031336). 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 Surry Hills 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 Surry Hills 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 Surry Hills 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 (Aug 2026), property sales & rents (Sep 2026), infrastructure projects (Sep 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to Aug 2026), age profile (to Aug 2026), employment (to Mar 2026), income (to FY 2023), education (to Aug 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