Area profile · Greater Sydney
Waterloo has an estimated 18,767 residents, up 14.6% since the 2021 Census, with 9 projects tracked in Waterloo.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The Waterloo Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 3.9 kilometres south from Sydney CBD. Its population is approximately 18,767 as of Aug 2026, up by 2,388 people (14.6%) from the 2021 Census count of 16,379 people. This change reflects an estimated resident population (ERP) of 18,631 from the ABS as of June 2025 and 210 validated new addresses since the Census date. Waterloo’s population density and growth drivers are well above average, placing its growth among the top 10% nationally. The area is a dense, highly active development location, with population growth and development activity well above average.
Waterloo is shaped by young professionals and a high proportion of young adults and working-age residents, alongside many lone-person and group households. It is highly culturally diverse, with a high share of residents born overseas, and has an above-average renting population. Its energetic community and mix of older and newer architecture are complemented by cafes, dining and shopping destinations, galleries, public art, parks and recreational spaces.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The Waterloo Statistical Area (Lv2) is located 3.9 kilometres south from Sydney CBD. Its population is approximately 18,767 as of Aug 2026, up by 2,388 people (14.6%) from the 2021 Census count of 16,379 people. This change reflects an estimated resident population (ERP) of 18,631 from the ABS as of June 2025 and 210 validated new addresses since the Census date. Waterloo’s population density and growth drivers are well above average, placing its growth among the top 10% nationally. The area is a dense, highly active development location, with population growth and development activity well above average.
Waterloo is shaped by young professionals and a high proportion of young adults and working-age residents, alongside many lone-person and group households. It is highly culturally diverse, with a high share of residents born overseas, and has an above-average renting population. Its energetic community and mix of older and newer architecture are complemented by cafes, dining and shopping destinations, galleries, public art, parks and recreational spaces.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 5,384 in 2001 and 18,631 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 18,767 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 32.6%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 29.8%.
Waterloo ranks in the 96th percentile nationally for amenities and the 95th for transport & access.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Waterloo is $968 a week, up 3.2% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 23% above Greater Sydney. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 5.3%.
23% above Greater Sydney on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $695 in 2017, $1,034 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $654 in 2017, $968 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 21/22 Crystal Street, Waterloo NSW 2017 | $1,150,000 | 8 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 31/110 Wellington Street, Waterloo NSW 2017 | $850,000 | 8 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 6701/21 Tung Hop Street, Waterloo NSW 2017 | $1,240,000 | 7 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 411/810 Elizabeth Street, Waterloo NSW 2017 | $1,170,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 326/349 George Street, Waterloo NSW 2017 | $1,100,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 305/20 Dunkerley Place, Waterloo NSW 2017 | $757,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 305/19 Dunkerley Place, Waterloo NSW 2017 | $1,200,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 7/6 Archibald Avenue, Waterloo NSW 2017 | $870,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 507/23 Archibald Avenue, Waterloo NSW 2017 | $626,500 | 28 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 428/2 Allen Street, Waterloo NSW 2017 | $955,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Unit |
The 10 most recent of the 50 residential sales recorded since 12 Aug 2026 (the latest settled 8 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 50, houses and units together, was $860,000 (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 | $968 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +3.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 5.3% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $1.65m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $900k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $860,000 | Median of the 50 most recent residential sales, settled 12 Aug 2026 to 8 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $1,034 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +9.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $968 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +3.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.2% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 5.4% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Sydney Inner City | $884 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Sydney Inner City, over 12 months | +5.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Greater Sydney | $789 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Sydney, over 12 months | +5.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, NSW | $715 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, NSW, over 12 months | +5.6% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 120 tracked applications: 53 approved, 17 under assessment, 50 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Waterloo, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 9 projects in Waterloo (4 under construction) and 175 more in the surrounding area.
The Waterloo Metro Quarter, marketed by the developer as Waterloo Collective, is a 900 million dollar mixed-use over-station development being delivered by a Mirvac and John Holland joint venture in partnership with the NSW Government.
A large-scale mixed-use urban precinct by DASCO on a 1.7-hectare former industrial site at the corner of Bourke, Young, and McEvoy Streets in Waterloo. The development delivers 373 apartments across six buildings ranging from 6 to 20 storeys, designed by Bates Smart, MHNDU, Richards and Spence, and Fieldwork.
Mixed-use build-to-rent precinct on the corner of Danks and Young Street delivering about 400 rental apartments and ~2,500 sqm of retail. Part of the Danks Street precinct revival, close to Green Square Station and the future Waterloo Metro.
Atlassian Central is a 39-storey hybrid timber and concrete office tower at 8-10 Lee Street, Haymarket, beside Central Station in the NSW Government's Tech Central precinct. Designed by SHoP Architects and BVN and built by a Built and Obayashi joint venture for Dexus and Atlassian, it began construction in August 2022.
The Mariyung Fleet is a new double-deck electric intercity fleet replacing the ageing V-set and Oscar trains in NSW. Built by the RailConnect NSW consortium of UGL, Hyundai Rotem and Mitsubishi Electric Australia, the trains feature 2x2 seating, charging ports, luggage, pram and bicycle spaces, and accessible toilets.
Green Square Town Centre is a major urban renewal project transforming a 278 hectare former industrial area into a high-density mixed-use precinct set to accommodate around 61,000 residents and 21,000 jobs by 2030.
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.
Waterloo South is the first stage of the Waterloo Renewal Project, a major mixed-tenure urban renewal program on Gadigal Land in inner Sydney. The Concept State Significant Development Application and concurrent rezoning (SSD-93222706) propose around 3,300 new homes, including 50% social and affordable housing, plus upgraded parks, community facilities…
A $2 billion urban renewal masterplan transforming a former industrial site into a vibrant mixed-use precinct by Coronation Property. The development features approximately 1,000 residences across Build-to-Rent and Build-to-Sell stages, alongside public green spaces including the McPherson Park and Kooka Walk pedestrian boulevard.
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.
A 264-apartment affordable housing development by City West Housing located at 330-332 Botany Road, Alexandria within the Green Square Town Centre. All units are dedicated to affordable rental housing in perpetuity. Features an all-electric building design with solar PV panels and 3-bedroom family units on lower floors.
A landmark inner-city urban renewal precinct on a 1.1 hectare site opposite Redfern Oval, set to deliver around 355 new homes across four buildings (ranging from approximately 4 to 16 storeys).
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 79 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 11, 2026 18, 2027 15, 2028 16, 2029 8, 2030 5, 2031 3, 2032 1, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 2. 48 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 120 substantial development applications lodged in and around Waterloo over the past 5 years, 60 in the last 12 months; 17 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 2, 2022 9, 2023 10, 2024 12, 2025 31, 2026 (to Oct) 56.
Key application 923 Bourke Street, Waterloo Retail | $166m | 110 dwellings | 6 storeys Approved
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 120 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 60 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 15.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 270 | ABS building approvals | 95th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 53 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 17 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the Waterloo SA2 include: Danks Street District (Construction); Waterloo Metro Quarter (Waterloo Collective) (Construction); 207 Young Street Waterloo (Construction); Green Square Town Centre (Construction); and Waterloo Renewal Project - Waterloo South (Under Assessment). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the Waterloo SA2 spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Residential Development, and Transport & Logistics, among others.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Waterloo among the top 11% of areas assessed nationwide.
Dwelling approval activity in the Waterloo SA2 area has seen 798 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The Waterloo SA2's current population of 18,767 has been supported by 270 approvals on average over recent years.
The Waterloo SA2 has seen 15.4 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 46 people in the Waterloo SA2, compared to one for every 165 in Greater Sydney.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the Waterloo SA2's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 270, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the Waterloo SA2 has grown by approximately 1,770 people, while 1,349 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 1.3 people added for each new dwelling approval. This suggests a balanced relationship between population growth and housing supply.
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.
Waterloo lies within the top 9% of areas nationally in terms of population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of short and medium-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 18,767 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +14.6% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Population density | 16,551 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 99th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +2.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +2.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 16,379 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 2,388 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +3.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.9% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 1.13 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the Waterloo SA2 was estimated to be approximately 18,767 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 18,631 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The waterloo sa2 has added approximately 2,388 people and shown a 14.58% increase from the 16,379 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the Waterloo SA2 is estimated at 16,608 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the Waterloo SA2 has shown a compound annual growth rate of 2.5% per annum.
Population growth in the Waterloo SA2 is driven by: Overseas migration (93.6%), Natural increase (6.4%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 93.6% of overall population gains.
Waterloo's young demographic places it in the bottom 12% of areas nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 33 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 12th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 10.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 7.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 47.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 67.6% | 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 | 33 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 3.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 14.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 32.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 20.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 8.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 6.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 5.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 3.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the Waterloo SA2 at 33 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 33 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 33 years as at August 2026, Waterloo is 4 years younger than the Greater Sydney 2021 Census average (37 years) and 5 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the Waterloo SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 32.6% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the Waterloo SA2 compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 3.9% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the Waterloo SA2 show significant variance compared to Greater Sydney. The most over-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (32.6% vs 16.2%). The most under-represented age groups are 5-14 year-olds (3.9% vs 11.8%) and 75-84 year-olds (3.3% vs 5.3%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 7.4% of the population in the Waterloo SA2 as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 10.4% of the population in the Waterloo SA2 as at August 2026.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 76% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $66,476 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 76th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $85,277 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,028 | 2021 Census, weekly | 67th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,172 | 2021 Census, weekly | 89th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 30.7% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,699 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 26.8% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Waterloo SA2 is approximately $70,717. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $66,476.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Waterloo SA2 is approximately $90,718. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $85,277.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the Waterloo SA2 is approximately $70,717 compared to $67,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $66,476 and $63,183 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the Waterloo SA2 is approximately $90,718 compared to $92,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $85,277 and $86,684 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the Waterloo SA2's households (~29.8% / 2,398 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the Waterloo SA2 is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.8% 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 Waterloo SA2 is $2,028/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the Waterloo SA2 is $2,699/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the Waterloo SA2 is $1,172/wk.
The Waterloo SA2 shows a median taxpayer income of $66,476 and an average of $85,277 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. This is among the highest in Australia, contrasting with Greater Sydney's median income of $63,183 and average income of $86,684. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $70,717 (median) and $90,718 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the Waterloo SA2 is $6,599 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The waterloo sa2's disposable income is $6,599 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Waterloo shows employment indicators that trail behind approximately 70% of regions assessed across Australia.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 7.5% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 67.8% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 11,014 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 16,073 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 11,906 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of June 2026, the Waterloo SA2 has approximately 11,014 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 7.5%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of June 2026, the unemployment rate in the Waterloo SA2 stands at 7.5%, which is 3.3 percentage points above Greater Sydney's rate of 4.2%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the Waterloo SA2 is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are professional & technical (19.3% of employment), finance & insurance (10.3%), and health care & social assistance (9.6%). Other significant employers include retail trade and education & training.
Over the past year to June 2026, the Waterloo 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 Waterloo SA2 is 67.8%, 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 waterloo sa2 shows notable specialisation in professional & technical, which employs 19.3% 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.
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The waterloo sa2's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 3.8% decline, ranking 32nd out of 37 regions nationally.
Education in Waterloo: university qualifications 56.1%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 895.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 36.6% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 16.7% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 56.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 10.8% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 10.5% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 22.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 29.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 14.1% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 3.3% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 2.0% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
56.1% of people aged 15 and over in the Waterloo SA2 have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in Greater Sydney.
22.6% of people aged 15 and over in the Waterloo SA2 have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% in Greater Sydney.
The waterloo sa2 ranks in the 30th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the Waterloo SA2 are: Bachelor Degree (36.6%), Postgraduate (16.7%), Certificate (10.8%).
29.1% of the population in the Waterloo SA2 is currently engaged in formal education, including 3.3% in primary school, 2.0% in secondary school, 14.1% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the Waterloo SA2 is 895, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 2 schools within the Waterloo SA2, with a combined enrollment of approximately 119 students.
The waterloo sa2 includes 1 primary school, 1 combined school.
Waterloo features high concentrations of group households and lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 1.8 people | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 40.5% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 9.4% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 30.5% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 5.4% | 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 12.8% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 8,046 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 9,219 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 46.6% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 0.6 per family | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the Waterloo SA2 had 8,046 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 14.6% to an estimated 9,219 households today.
The average household size in the Waterloo SA2 is 1.8 people. This compares to 2.7 in Greater Sydney and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 46.6% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (40.5%), group households (12.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 3,749 family households, couples with children account for 9.4% of all households, couples without children at home 30.5%, and single parent families 5.4%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Sydney, the Waterloo SA2 shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 40.5% (versus 23.2% in Greater Sydney). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 46.6% compared to 72.6% in Greater Sydney. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Marriage patterns reveal 22.4% of the adult population are currently married, while 64.4% have never married. This compares to 48.3% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Sydney.
Single-person households represent 40.5% of all households in the Waterloo SA2, higher than the average for Greater Sydney of 23.2%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 12.8% of households, above the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Waterloo 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 | 59.3% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 43.3% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 56.7% | 2021 Census | 15th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 59.0% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 40.7% | 2021 Census | 3rd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
Waterloo is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country, with 43.3% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 59.3% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Waterloo, at 32.2% of people, although more residents (56.5%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 1.6% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Greater Sydney.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Waterloo are English, comprising 18.2% of the population, Other, comprising 16.7% of the population, and Chinese, comprising 16.1% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Sydney's 8.4%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Russian is notably overrepresented at 1.7% of Waterloo (vs 0.4% across Greater Sydney), Spanish at 1.3% (vs 0.6%) and French at 0.9% (vs 0.5%).
59.3% of the Waterloo SA2 population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% across Greater Sydney.
43.3% of the population in the Waterloo SA2 speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in Greater Sydney.
2.2% of the Waterloo SA2 population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in Greater Sydney.
59.0% of the Waterloo SA2 population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in Greater Sydney.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Waterloo 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 | 75.3% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 6.3% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 91.2% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,500 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 88th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 18.4% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 8.1% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $530 | 2021 Census, weekly | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 26.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 86th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 28.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 82nd percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 1.1 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
In the Waterloo SA2, 6.3% of homes are owned outright, 18.4% are owned with a mortgage, and 75.3% are rented.
According to the latest data, 0.5% of dwellings in the Waterloo SA2 are houses.
In the Waterloo SA2, 91.2% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 8.1% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the Waterloo SA2 stands at 6.3%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the Waterloo SA2 is $2,500, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the Waterloo SA2 is $2,189, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the Waterloo SA2, households with mortgages typically spend 28.4% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 26.1% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the Waterloo SA2 is 1.1, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the Waterloo SA2 shows mortgage holders spending 28.4% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% in Greater Sydney), while renters spend 26.1% of income on rent (vs 22.6% in Greater Sydney).
The dwelling mix in the Waterloo SA2 consists of 0.5% detached houses, 8.1% semi-detached dwellings, 91.2% apartments, and 0.1% other dwelling types.
Housing in Waterloo consumes approximately 24.9% of median household income ($8,781 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Waterloo show attached dwellings contributing 100% of approvals compared to 100% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 0% of applications versus 0% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Waterloo is experiencing exceptional growth in housing density, ranking in the top 10% nationally.
Health outcomes in Waterloo are marginally below the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 59.7% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 78th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 76.2% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.5% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 80.7% | 2021 Census | 78th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.3% | 2021 Census | 52nd percentile nationally |
Around 59.7% of people in the Waterloo SA2 are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.8% in Greater Sydney.
In the Waterloo SA2, 4.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
6.6% of people in the Waterloo SA2 are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.4% of the population across Greater Sydney is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.2% of the Waterloo SA2 population, while in Greater Sydney, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.3% of people in the Waterloo SA2 have heart disease. Across Greater Sydney,3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the Waterloo SA2, 59.7% 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 | 95 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 95th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 39 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 35th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 12,048 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 96th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 481 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 15 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 0.3 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 58.5% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 39 public transport stops within the Waterloo SA2.
The Waterloo SA2 has 12,048 weekly trips across 15 routes, averaging 1,721 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 100 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 154 m away and the nearest pharmacy 222 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 39 stops nearby, 12,048 weekly trips, access rating 95 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 96 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 96th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 154 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 222 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 254 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 276 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 286 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 409 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 469 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 711 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 1.8 km | 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 8 long day care centres with 470 places in Waterloo, about 1.4 children aged 0-4 per place.
Short silent previews of sample pages. Sector reports are ordered for a catchment you draw, not for the suburb as a whole.
05Reports and tools
Order a report and find more tools.
An area report on Waterloo is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Waterloo.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking positions Waterloo among the top 11% of areas assessed nationwide.
Waterloo ranks in the 53rd percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Waterloo's established property market has recorded 354 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 98% residential and 2% commercial transactions.
Waterloo lies within the top 9% of areas nationally in terms of population growth performance according to AreaSearch analysis of short and medium-term trends.
Waterloo's young demographic places it in the bottom 12% of areas nationwide.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 76% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
Waterloo shows employment indicators that trail behind approximately 70% of regions assessed across Australia.
Education in Waterloo: university qualifications 56.1%, school advantage index (ICSEA) 895.
Waterloo features high concentrations of group households and lone person households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
Waterloo is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Waterloo features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Sydney.
Health outcomes in Waterloo are marginally below the national average with common health conditions somewhat prevalent across both younger and older age cohorts.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be above the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Waterloo has an estimated 18,767 residents, up 14.6% since the 2021 Census, with 9 projects tracked in Waterloo.
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 Waterloo.
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 Aug 2026. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 14 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SA2 boundaries are defined by the Australian Bureau of Statistics and are designed to represent communities for statistical reporting (for example census and ERP).
Suburbs and Localities (SAL) represent commonly-used suburb or locality names (postal-style areas) and may use different geographic boundaries. For a complete picture, consider both boundary types where available.
Main sources: ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia.
Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (117031647). 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 (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Waterloo 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 Waterloo 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.
