Area profile · Greater Sydney
Wahroonga (West) - Waitara has an estimated 12,557 residents, up 5.7% since the 2021 Census, with 5 projects tracked in Wahroonga (West) - Waitara.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Wahroonga (West) - Waitara Statistical Area (Lv2) lies 20 kilometres north-northwest of the Sydney CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 12,557 as of Aug 2026. Compared with the 11,877 people recorded at the 2021 Census, this represents an increase of 680 people (5.7%), derived from the ABS estimated resident population of 12,544 as of June 2025 together with 255 validated new addresses added since the Census date. Residents include a high proportion of working-age people, and the area shows strong population growth.
In general terms, the area is known in NSW for its lush greenery, serene atmosphere and beautiful heritage homes. Wahroonga and Waitara offer excellent primary and secondary schools, making them well suited to families with children. Sports facilities, parks and playgrounds provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, while restaurants, cafes and shopping centres serve diverse culinary and retail needs. Taken together, these qualities make the location a highly desirable place to live and raise a family.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Wahroonga (West) - Waitara Statistical Area (Lv2) lies 20 kilometres north-northwest of the Sydney CBD. AreaSearch estimates its population at approximately 12,557 as of Aug 2026. Compared with the 11,877 people recorded at the 2021 Census, this represents an increase of 680 people (5.7%), derived from the ABS estimated resident population of 12,544 as of June 2025 together with 255 validated new addresses added since the Census date. Residents include a high proportion of working-age people, and the area shows strong population growth.
In general terms, the area is known in NSW for its lush greenery, serene atmosphere and beautiful heritage homes. Wahroonga and Waitara offer excellent primary and secondary schools, making them well suited to families with children. Sports facilities, parks and playgrounds provide plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, while restaurants, cafes and shopping centres serve diverse culinary and retail needs. Taken together, these qualities make the location a highly desirable place to live and raise a family.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 5,847 in 2001 and 12,544 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 12,557 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 35 to 44, 20.6%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 32.8%.
Wahroonga (West) - Waitara ranks in the 98th percentile nationally for education and the 95th for cultural diversity.
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 Wahroonga (West) - Waitara is $774 a week, up 8.3% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 2% below Greater Sydney. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 4.8%.
2% below Greater Sydney on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $672 in 2017, $912 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $504 in 2017, $678 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50/5 Waitara Avenue, Waitara NSW 2077 | $900,000 | 21 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 20/15 Orara Street, Waitara NSW 2077 | $750,000 | 21 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 23/5 Waitara Avenue, Waitara NSW 2077 | $578,000 | 21 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 37 Isis Street, Wahroonga NSW 2076 | $2,202,500 | 20 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 10 John Hughes Place, Wahroonga NSW 2076 | $2,620,000 | 15 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 83/1 Alexandria Parade, Waitara NSW 2077 | $840,000 | 15 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 15/1 Park Avenue, Waitara NSW 2077 | $820,000 | 15 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 610/2 Orara Street, Waitara NSW 2077 | $775,000 | 14 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 67/1 Yardley Avenue, Waitara NSW 2077 | $1,100,000 | 13 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 39/4 Park Avenue, Waitara NSW 2077 | $795,000 | 12 Oct 2026 | Unit |
The 10 most recent of the 50 residential sales recorded since 11 Aug 2026 (the latest settled 21 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 50, houses and units together, was $824,000 (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 | $774 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +8.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 4.8% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $2.21m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $798k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $824,000 | Median of the 50 most recent residential sales, settled 11 Aug 2026 to 21 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $912 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +8.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $678 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +5.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 1.9% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 4.4% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Hornsby | $732 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Hornsby, over 12 months | +8.6% | 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 92 tracked applications: 60 approved, 12 under assessment, 20 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Wahroonga (West) - Waitara, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 5 projects in Wahroonga (West) - Waitara and 121 more in the surrounding area.
Eastwood Gardens (Waitara) is a proposed three-tower residential apartment project opposite Waitara Station, originally promoted by Toplace with around 300 dwellings, retail space and a landscaped podium over basement parking.:contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0} As at late 2025, the existing low-rise apartments at 5 Park Avenue and 19-21 Waitara Avenue…
Hornsby Park is the transformation of the former Hornsby Quarry, a 60-hectare site on Quarry Road in Hornsby, into a regional bush parkland, led by Hornsby Shire Council. Stage 1 opened in late March 2026, including the Crusher Plant Precinct, the Southern Lookout and upgraded Heritage Steps.
State Significant Development (SSD-45121248) approved by the NSW Independent Planning Commission on 12 February 2024. It is Stage 2 of HammondCare's Neringah Hospital redevelopment. The works demolish the 1960s hospital building and kiosk and build two 4-5 storey buildings above basement parking.
DA-approved mixed-use project within Hornsby town centre: demolition of existing structures and construction of a 13-14 storey building comprising approx. 76 residential units above three levels of commercial floorspace, with recent Section 4.55 modifications lodged in 2025.
Transformation of the 60-hectare former Hornsby Quarry site into a major regional parkland. The project is being delivered in stages, with the Crusher Plant Precinct, Southern Lookout, and Heritage Steps opening in March 2026.
The Residences is the first residential stage of the Wahroonga Estate masterplan, owned by the Seventh-day Adventist Church and delivered by Capital Corporation beside Sydney Adventist Hospital.
Multi-dwelling residential development at 91 Jersey Street North, Hornsby, about 800 metres from Hornsby Station and Westfield. The site consolidates two lots (91 and 91A) and is approved by Hornsby Shire Council (DA/1285/2022) for 20 two-storey townhouses over basement car parking of about 43 spaces, with strata subdivision.
Ku-ring-gai Council stormwater drainage upgrade along Railway Avenue between Redleaf Avenue and Millewa Avenue in Wahroonga. The works involve constructing new underground drainage pipes, culverts, and pit structures to mitigate local overland flow and street flooding risk.
Ku-ring-gai Council is preparing the first stage of upgrades to Braeside Street in Wahroonga (between Eastern Road and Westbrook Avenue). Works include new drainage infrastructure, kerb and gutter construction, pavement rehabilitation and targeted tree management with replanting.
Mixed-use shop-top housing development at 187-203 Peats Ferry Road and 2-6 Dural Street, Hornsby, designed by TURNER. It comprises 249 apartments in two residential towers (up to 20 storeys) above retail and supermarket space, a child care centre and about 362 basement car spaces.
A major mixed-use redevelopment of Westfield Hornsby within the NSW Government's Transport Oriented Development (TOD) Accelerated Precinct. Following finalised state-led rezoning, the project allows for approximately 6,000 new dwellings across multiple high-rise residential towers (reaching up to 53 storeys), alongside expanded retail, commercial spaces…
A completed master planned residential community adjoining Waitara Station, comprising 6 mid rise apartment buildings with around 498 dwellings, ground floor retail, an on site childcare centre, landscaped communal gardens and a direct pedestrian link to Waitara Station.
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 67 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2026 22, 2027 17, 2028 13, 2029 8, 2030 4, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 1, 2035 1, 2036 1. 16 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 92 substantial development applications lodged in and around Wahroonga (West) - Waitara over the past 5 years, 41 in the last 12 months; 12 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 4, 2022 14, 2023 11, 2024 9, 2025 16, 2026 (to Nov) 38.
Key application 1 Myra Street, Wahroonga Aged Care | $31m | 112 dwellings Approved
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 92 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 41 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 4.7 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 59th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 58 | ABS building approvals | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 60 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 12 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 include: Eastwood Gardens (Waitara) (Proposed); Hornsby Park (Construction); Waitara Central (Completed); The Gallery Waitara (Completed); and Hornsby Town Centre Masterplan and TOD Rezoning (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Residential Development, and Communities, among others.
With an infrastructure score in the top 40%, the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 demonstrates above-average development activity compared to national benchmarks.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Wahroonga (West) - Waitara among the top 23% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 area has seen 198 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2's current population of 12,557 has been supported by 58 approvals on average over recent years.
The Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 has seen 4.7 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 6.2 approvals in Greater Sydney. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 602 people in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2, compared to one for every 165 in Greater Sydney.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2's approval levels have been slightly above the yearly average of 58, showing modest growth in recent years.
Over the past five years, the population in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 has grown by approximately 638 people, while 288 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 2.2 people added for each new dwelling approval. This indicates solid population growth supported by housing development activity.
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.
Wahroonga (West) - Waitara lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 12,557 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +5.7% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 5,944 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 96th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +2.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 11,877 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 680 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 2.11 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 was estimated to be approximately 12,557 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 12,544 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The wahroonga (west) - waitara sa2 has added approximately 680 people and shown a 5.73% increase from the 11,877 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 is estimated at 5,951 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 2.8% per annum.
Population growth in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (100.0%), Natural increase (0.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 100.0% of overall population gains.
Wahroonga (West) - Waitara's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 39 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 40th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 18.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 17.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 21.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 54.6% | 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 | 38 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 12.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 9.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 12.2% | 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 | 13.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 8.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 8.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 7.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 at 39 years as at August 2026. That is up from the 2021 Census figure of 38 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 39 years as at August 2026, Wahroonga (West) - Waitara is 2 years older than the Greater Sydney 2021 Census average (37 years) and comparable to the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 35 - 44 group, making up 20.6% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 12.2% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Sydney. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (3.1% vs 2.1%) and 35-44 year-olds (20.6% vs 15.2%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 17.5% of the population in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 18.5% of the population in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 as at August 2026.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 78% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $65,992 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 74th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $92,322 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,155 | 2021 Census, weekly | 75th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $980 | 2021 Census, weekly | 77th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 32.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,483 | 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 Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 is approximately $70,202. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $65,992.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 is approximately $98,212. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $92,322.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 is approximately $70,202 compared to $67,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $65,992 and $63,183 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 is approximately $98,212 compared to $92,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $92,322 and $86,684 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2's households (~32.8% / 1,447 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 32.8% 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 Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 is $2,155/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 is $2,483/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 is $980/wk.
The Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2's income level is among the highest in Australia according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2's median income among taxpayers is $65,992 and the average income stands at $92,322, which compares to figures for Greater Sydney's of $63,183 and $86,684 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $70,202 (median) and $98,212 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 is $7,618 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The wahroonga (west) - waitara sa2's disposable income is $7,618 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The employment landscape in Wahroonga (West) - Waitara shows performance that lags behind national averages across key labour market indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 4.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 64.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 6,385 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 10,472 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 6,673 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 has approximately 6,385 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 4.3%. This healthy unemployment rate suggests a well-functioning labour market. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 stands at 4.3%, which is broadly in line with Greater Sydney's rate of 4.2%. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are professional & technical (18.4% of employment), health care & social assistance (17.1%), and finance & insurance (11.7%). Other significant employers include education & training and retail trade.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara 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 Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 is 64.7%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate trailing the Greater Sydney average of 68.9%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Sydney.
The wahroonga (west) - waitara sa2 shows notable specialisation in professional & technical, which employs 18.4% of the local workforce compared to 11.5% across Greater Sydney. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The wahroonga (west) - waitara 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.
Wahroonga (West) - Waitara demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 2% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 34.6% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 19.9% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 58.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 8.9% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 3.6% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.5% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 22.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 30.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 5.6% | 2021 Census | 65th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 11.5% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 5.7% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
58.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in Greater Sydney.
22.5% of people aged 15 and over in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% in Greater Sydney.
The wahroonga (west) - waitara sa2 ranks in the 98th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (34.6%), Postgraduate (19.9%), Advanced Diploma (10.5%).
30.1% of the population in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 11.5% in primary school, 5.7% in secondary school, 5.6% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 is 1138, indicating above-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 4 schools within the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,373 students.
The wahroonga (west) - waitara sa2 includes 2 primary schools, 2 secondary schools.
Wahroonga (West) - Waitara features high concentrations of couples with children but relatively few couples without children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.5 people | 2021 Census | 47th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 25.5% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 38.7% | 2021 Census | 76th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 22.5% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 9.7% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 4,413 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 4,666 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 72.2% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.3 per family | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 had 4,413 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 5.7% to an estimated 4,666 households today.
The average household size in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 is 2.5 people. This compares to 2.7 in Greater Sydney and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 72.2% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (25.5%), group households (2.2%), and other household types (0.2%).
Of the 3,186 family households, couples with children account for 38.7% of all households, couples without children at home 22.5%, and single parent families 9.7%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Sydney, the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 have an average of 1.3 children, slightly below the Greater Sydney average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 57.7% of the adult population are currently married, while 25.4% have never married. This compares to 48.3% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Sydney.
Single-person households represent 25.5% of all households in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2, similar to the average for Greater Sydney of 23.2%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.2% of households, below the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Wahroonga (West) - Waitara 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 | 59.4% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 57.7% | 2021 Census | 91st percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 42.3% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 68.8% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 40.6% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.2% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
Wahroonga (West) - Waitara is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country, with 57.7% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 59.4% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Wahroonga (West) - Waitara, at 37.4% of people, although more residents (37.8%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Hinduism, which comprises 15.4% of the population, substantially higher than the Greater Sydney average of 5.2%.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Wahroonga (West) - Waitara are Chinese, comprising 20.6% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Sydney's 8.4%, Other, comprising 16.5% of the population, and English, comprising 14.5% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Korean is notably overrepresented at 3.6% of Wahroonga (West) - Waitara (vs 1.1% across Greater Sydney), Indian at 10.9% (vs 3.6%) and Russian at 0.7% (vs 0.4%).
59.4% of the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% across Greater Sydney.
57.7% of the population in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in Greater Sydney.
0.2% of the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in Greater Sydney.
68.8% of the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in Greater Sydney.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Wahroonga (West) - Waitara 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 | 43.6% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 23.0% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 68.3% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,380 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 84th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 33.4% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 4.5% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $490 | 2021 Census, weekly | 87th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 22.7% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 68th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 25.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 63rd percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 1.1 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
In the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2, 23.0% of homes are owned outright, 33.4% are owned with a mortgage, and 43.6% are rented.
According to the latest data, 27.1% of dwellings in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 are houses.
In the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2, 68.3% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 4.5% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 stands at 23.0%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 is $2,380, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 is $1,720, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 25.5% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 22.7% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 is 1.1, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 25.5% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% in Greater Sydney), while renters spend 22.7% of income on rent (vs 22.6% in Greater Sydney).
The dwelling mix in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 consists of 27.1% detached houses, 4.5% semi-detached dwellings, 68.3% apartments, and 0.1% other dwelling types.
Housing in Wahroonga (West) - Waitara consumes approximately 18.4% of median household income ($9,331 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Wahroonga (West) - Waitara show attached dwellings contributing 86% of approvals compared to 73% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 14% of applications versus 27% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Wahroonga (West) - Waitara's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with prevalence of common health conditions quite low across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 62.3% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 83rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 77.0% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 6.6% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 85.2% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.4% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
Around 62.3% of people in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.8% in Greater Sydney.
In the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2, 6.6% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
5.2% of people in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.4% of the population across Greater Sydney is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.5% of the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 population, while in Greater Sydney, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.6% of people in the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Sydney,3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2, 62.3% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Sydney sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 59.8%.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 81 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 81st percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 43 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 37th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 4,062 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 70th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 292 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 42 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 0.6 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 56.5% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 43 public transport stops within the Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2.
The Wahroonga (West) - Waitara SA2 has 4,062 weekly trips across 42 routes, averaging 580 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 155 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 215 m away and the nearest school 332 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 43 stops nearby, 4,062 weekly trips, access rating 81 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 84 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 84th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 215 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 332 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 414 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 436 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 510 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 733 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 797 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 895 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 903 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 932 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 933 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 7 long day care centres with 323 places in Wahroonga (West) - Waitara, about 1.8 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
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An area report on Wahroonga (West) - Waitara is built to order and emailed to you.
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Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Wahroonga (West) - Waitara.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Wahroonga (West) - Waitara among the top 23% of areas assessed nationwide.
Wahroonga (West) - Waitara has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 36% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Wahroonga (West) - Waitara's established property market has recorded 230 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 98% residential and 2% commercial transactions.
Wahroonga (West) - Waitara lies within the top quartile of areas nationally for population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Wahroonga (West) - Waitara's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 78% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
The employment landscape in Wahroonga (West) - Waitara shows performance that lags behind national averages across key labour market indicators.
Wahroonga (West) - Waitara demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 2% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
Wahroonga (West) - Waitara features high concentrations of couples with children but relatively few couples without children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
Wahroonga (West) - Waitara is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Wahroonga (West) - Waitara features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Sydney.
Wahroonga (West) - Waitara's residents are healthier than average in comparison to broader Australia with prevalence of common health conditions quite low 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.
Wahroonga (West) - Waitara has an estimated 12,557 residents, up 5.7% since the 2021 Census, with 5 projects tracked in Wahroonga (West) - Waitara.
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 Wahroonga (West) - Waitara.
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 Dec 2025. Housing 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 (121021579). 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 (Dec 2025) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Wahroonga (West) - Waitara 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 Wahroonga (West) - Waitara 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.
