Suburb profile · Greater Sydney
Dee Why has an estimated 25,608 residents, up 9.7% since the 2021 Census, with 11 projects tracked in Dee Why.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Dee Why sits 14 kilometres north-northeast of the Sydney CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, the suburb's population is estimated at around 25,608 as of August 2026, derived from aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) counts released yearly and national address file data updated each quarter. This represents an increase of 2,254 people (9.7%) since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 23,354 people. The community is well educated and highly culturally diverse, with a high population level born overseas and a notable presence of residents aged 35 to 44, alongside an elevated share aged 25 to 34. Apartments are a strong feature of the local housing mix, and the renting population is above average.
The area has a high proportion of young adults, and its working-age population is comprised largely of group households. Population growth has been moderate, while sales volumes are significantly above average relative to population. Latest population estimate date: Aug 2026.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Dee Why sits 14 kilometres north-northeast of the Sydney CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, the suburb's population is estimated at around 25,608 as of August 2026, derived from aggregated SA2-level Estimated Resident Population (ERP) counts released yearly and national address file data updated each quarter. This represents an increase of 2,254 people (9.7%) since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 23,354 people. The community is well educated and highly culturally diverse, with a high population level born overseas and a notable presence of residents aged 35 to 44, alongside an elevated share aged 25 to 34. Apartments are a strong feature of the local housing mix, and the renting population is above average.
The area has a high proportion of young adults, and its working-age population is comprised largely of group households. Population growth has been moderate, while sales volumes are significantly above average relative to population. Latest population estimate date: Aug 2026.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 17,972 in 2006 and 25,143 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 25,608 (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, 21%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 37.6%.
Dee Why ranks in the 94th percentile nationally for transport & access and the 87th for education.
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 Dee Why is $830 a week, up 8.4% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 5% above Greater Sydney. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.9%.
5% above Greater Sydney on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $832 in 2017, $1,200 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $554 in 2017, $790 in 2026. The latest is to Jun 2026.
Yield is indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools.
| Address | Sale price | Settled | Address type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6/146 Pacific Parade, Dee Why NSW 2099 | $1,050,000 | 8 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 4/33 Westminster Avenue, Dee Why NSW 2099 | $875,000 | 7 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 28 Stoddart Place, Dee Why NSW 2099 | $2,190,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 501/822 Pittwater Road, Dee Why NSW 2099 | $1,570,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 18/82 Pacific Parade, Dee Why NSW 2099 | $920,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 8/2 Kempsey Close, Dee Why NSW 2099 | $735,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 34/17 Fisher Road, Dee Why NSW 2099 | $950,000 | 2 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 17 May Road, Dee Why NSW 2099 | $1,920,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 7/20 Dee Why Parade, Dee Why NSW 2099 | $882,000 | 1 Oct 2026 | Unit |
| 15/10 Francis Street, Dee Why NSW 2099 | $865,000 | 30 Sep 2026 | Unit |
The 10 most recent of the 48 residential sales recorded since 28 Aug 2026 (the latest settled 8 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 48, houses and units together, was $972,500 (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 | $830 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +8.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.9% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $2.50m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $1.03m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $972,500 | Median of the 48 most recent residential sales, settled 28 Aug 2026 to 8 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $1,200 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | -2.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $790 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +7.5% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 2.4% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 3.9% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Warringah | $880 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Warringah, over 12 months | +5.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Sydney - Northern Beaches | $960 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Sydney - Northern Beaches, over 12 months | +6.4% | 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 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 163 tracked applications: 77 approved, 39 under assessment, 47 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 11 projects in Dee Why (4 under construction) and 34 more in the surrounding area.
Luxury coastal apartment development comprising 280 apartments across two buildings (6-7 storeys fronting Delmar Parade and 10 storeys on the Pittwater Road corner), designed by Rothelowman with interiors by Alanna Smit. Includes 43 affordable housing units, rooftop BBQ and communal areas, and a private gym and wellness facility.
Four-storey mixed-use development featuring 9 luxury apartments (5 three-bedroom, 2 two-bedroom, 2 one-bedroom) on upper three levels with ground floor commercial space for cafes and restaurants. Includes 3 affordable housing units and two basement levels with 14 resident and 2 visitor parking spaces.
A brand-new 7-storey mixed-use development comprising 78 apartments and 12 retail shops, positioned as Dee Why's crowning jewel. Located 800m from Dee Why Beach and next to the newly completed Lighthouse shopping and dining precinct, offering premium coastal living with activated retail at ground level.
An award-winning $300 million mixed-use landmark by Meriton Group, serving as the new heart of the Dee Why Town Centre. The development features 351 luxury apartments across four buildings, including two 17-storey towers that are the tallest on the Northern Beaches.
Boutique collection of 16 prestigious residences featuring 2 and 3-bedroom apartments, garden residences, sub-penthouse, and penthouse with refined beachside living. Free flowing layouts, seamless outdoor connection, state of the art technology, luxurious European inspired interiors with Gaggenau appliances.
Exclusive collection of 6 grand luxury residences at Collaroy Beach on Sydney's Northern Beaches, developed by Cornerstone with architecture and interiors by BKH. Inspired by early 20th-century California bungalow and Spanish Mission styles, comprising two ground-floor apartments with private gardens and four expansive penthouses.
Luxury coastal apartment development featuring 126 apartments across 3 buildings (4 storeys each) - East Hampton, Hampton Bay and Seacliff. Heritage Pacific Lodge (1892) centerpiece converted to wellness spa. 5,500 sqm landscaped gardens with mature angophoras, tallowwoods, banksias and Norfolk pines.
A collection of eight super premium, three-bedroom single-level residences designed exclusively for over-60s, featuring lush landscaping, luxe features, private patios with outdoor kitchens, and basement parking with a central lift. Each residence includes a Tesla battery, EV charging, and 5 kW of solar.
Upgrade of the Northern Beaches Secondary College Freshwater Campus to support its transition from a Year 11-12 senior campus to a full Year 7-12 co-educational high school.
NSW Government's legislated reforms, effective February 2025, encouraging higher-density housing (townhouses, terraces, small apartment buildings, and apartments up to 6 storeys) within 800 metres of nine identified town centres on the Northern Beaches. Overrides some existing local planning controls to address housing supply.
Four-storey mixed-use shop-top housing development at the corner of Pittwater Road and Ocean Grove, Collaroy. DA2023/1395 lodged with Northern Beaches Council proposes demolition of existing commercial buildings and construction of 3 ground-floor retail tenancies and 22 apartments (2-3 bedrooms) with basement parking (29 resident, 5 visitor, 19 retail…
DA approved mixed-use development site featuring 22 boarding rooms, 1 penthouse apartment, and 2 ground floor commercial suites with basement parking. 814sqm site with northeast aspect and direct ocean views, flexible E1 Local Centre zoning.
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 16 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 3, 2026 6, 2027 4, 2028 0, 2029 0, 2030 2, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 1. 12 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 163 substantial development applications lodged in and around Dee Why over the past 5 years, 118 in the last 12 months; 39 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 2, 2022 15, 2023 3, 2024 8, 2025 20, 2026 (to Oct) 115.
Key application 23 Fisher Road, Dee Why Multi-Resi | $71m | 126 dwellings | 5 storeys Approved
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 163 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 118 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 2.7 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 35th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 63 | ABS building approvals | 66th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 77 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 39 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Dee Why include: Casa Delmar (Construction); Dommar Dee Why Beachfront Residences (Construction); St Luke's Grammar School Senior Campus Expansion & Adaptive Re-use (Approved); Headland Road Pedestrian Footpath Upgrade (Approved); and 154-158 Pacific Parade Mixed Use Development (Under Assessment). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Dee Why spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Transport & Logistics, and Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, among others.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Dee Why recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Dee Why area has seen 35 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Dee Why's current population of 25,608 has been supported by 63 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Dee Why has seen 2.7 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 1427 people in the suburb of Dee Why, compared to one for every 165 in Greater Sydney.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Dee Why's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 63, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Dee Why has grown by approximately 1,377 people, while 316 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 4.4 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
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.
Population growth drivers in Dee Why are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 25,608 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +9.7% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 67th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 8,304 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 98th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 23,354 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 2,254 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +2.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 3.08 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Dee Why was estimated to be approximately 25,608 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 25,143 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Dee Why has added approximately 2,254 people and shown a 9.65% increase from the 23,354 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Dee Why is estimated at 8,314 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Dee Why has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.2% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Dee Why is driven by: Overseas migration (68.0%), Natural increase (32.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 68.0% of overall population gains.
Dee Why's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 36 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 30th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 13.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 13.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 30.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 62.8% | 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 | 36 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 6.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 7.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 9.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 21.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 18.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 10.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 7.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 4.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Dee Why at 36 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 36 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 36 years as at August 2026, Dee Why is comparable to the Greater Sydney 2021 Census average (37 years) and 2 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Dee Why compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 21.0% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Dee Why compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 7.6% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Dee Why show significant variance compared to Greater Sydney. The most under-represented age group is 5-14 year-olds (7.6% vs 11.8%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 13.9% of the population in the suburb of Dee Why as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 13.9% of the population in the suburb of Dee Why 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) | $66,145 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 75th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $92,638 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,106 | 2021 Census, weekly | 72nd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,065 | 2021 Census, weekly | 84th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 29.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,460 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 16.0% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Dee Why is approximately $70,365. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $66,145.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Dee Why is approximately $98,548. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $92,638.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Dee Why is approximately $70,365 compared to $67,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $66,145 and $63,183 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Dee Why is approximately $98,548 compared to $92,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $92,638 and $86,684 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Dee Why's households (~37.6% / 3,705 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Dee Why is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 37.6% 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 suburb of Dee Why is $2,106/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Dee Why is $2,460/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Dee Why is $1,065/wk.
The suburb of Dee Why shows a median taxpayer income of $66,145 and an average of $92,638 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. This is extremely high nationally, 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 $70,365 (median) and $98,548 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Dee Why is $7,233 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Dee Why's disposable income is $7,233 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The employment landscape in Dee Why shows performance that lags behind national averages across key labour market indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 5.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 76.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 15,753 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 20,220 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 16,648 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Dee Why has approximately 15,753 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 5.4%. The unemployment rate is moderate, indicating some available workforce capacity. Employment indicators are below the national average, suggesting room for improvement.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Dee Why stands at 5.4%, which is 1.2 percentage points above Greater Sydney's rate of 4.1%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Dee Why is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (16.2% of employment), retail trade (11.1%), and professional & technical (11.0%). Other significant employers include construction and accommodation & food.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Dee Why has experienced a decline in employment, with total jobs decreasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has risen. By comparison, Greater Sydney saw employment increased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Dee Why is 76.7%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate leading the Greater Sydney average of 68.9%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
The suburb of Dee Why shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 7.9% of the local workforce compared to 5.8% across Greater Sydney. This moderate specialisation indicates some local strength in the sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 1 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
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The suburb of Dee Why'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.
Dee Why shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 27.6% | 2021 Census | 81st percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 9.8% | 2021 Census | 75th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 40.1% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 18.5% | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 13.7% | 2021 Census | 96th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 27.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 26.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 5.9% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 6.8% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 5.1% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
40.1% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Dee Why have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in Greater Sydney.
27.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Dee Why have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% in Greater Sydney.
The suburb of Dee Why ranks in the 87th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Dee Why are: Bachelor Degree (27.6%), Certificate (18.5%), Advanced Diploma (13.7%).
26.6% of the population in the suburb of Dee Why is currently engaged in formal education, including 6.8% in primary school, 5.1% in secondary school, 5.9% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Dee Why is 1083, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 4 schools within the suburb of Dee Why, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,212 students.
The suburb of Dee Why includes 2 primary schools, 2 combined schools.
Dee Why features high concentrations of group households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.3 people | 2021 Census | 31st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 29.5% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 25.6% | 2021 Census | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 28.1% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 9.8% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 5.8% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 9,863 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 10,815 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 64.6% | 2021 Census | 24th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.1 per family | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Dee Why had 9,863 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 9.7% to an estimated 10,815 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Dee Why is 2.3 people. This compares to 2.7 in Greater Sydney and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 64.6% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (29.5%), group households (5.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 6,371 family households, couples with children account for 25.6% of all households, couples without children at home 28.1%, and single parent families 9.8%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Sydney, the suburb of Dee Why shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 29.5% (versus 23.2% in Greater Sydney). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 64.6% compared to 72.6% in Greater Sydney. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Dee Why have an average of 1.1 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 40.7% of the adult population are currently married, while 41.7% have never married. This compares to 48.3% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Sydney.
Single-person households represent 29.5% of all households in the suburb of Dee Why, 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 5.8% of households, above the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Dee Why 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 | 46.2% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 35.6% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 64.4% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 74.2% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 53.8% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.6% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
Dee Why scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 35.6% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 46.2% born overseas.
The main religion in Dee Why was found to be Christianity, which makes up 43.5% of people in Dee Why. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Buddhism, which comprises 5.0% of the population, compared to 4.1% across Greater Sydney.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Dee Why are English, comprising 22.9% of the population, Other, comprising 18.3% of the population, and Australian, comprising 17.0% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Serbian is notably overrepresented at 1.5% of Dee Why (vs 0.5% across Greater Sydney), Spanish at 1.1% (vs 0.6%) and French at 0.9% (vs 0.5%).
46.2% of the suburb of Dee Why population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% across Greater Sydney.
35.6% of the population in the suburb of Dee Why speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in Greater Sydney.
0.6% of the suburb of Dee Why population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in Greater Sydney.
74.2% of the suburb of Dee Why population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in Greater Sydney.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Dee Why 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 | 48.5% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 21.5% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 82.0% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,457 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 86th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 30.0% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $550 | 2021 Census, weekly | 95th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 26.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 87th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 26.9% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 74th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 1.1 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Dee Why, 21.5% of homes are owned outright, 30.0% are owned with a mortgage, and 48.5% are rented.
According to the latest data, 15.3% of dwellings in the suburb of Dee Why are houses.
In the suburb of Dee Why, 82.0% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 2.4% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Dee Why stands at 21.5%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Dee Why is $2,457, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Dee Why is $1,893, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Dee Why, households with mortgages typically spend 26.9% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 26.1% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Dee Why is 1.1, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Dee Why shows mortgage holders spending 26.9% 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 suburb of Dee Why consists of 15.3% detached houses, 2.4% semi-detached dwellings, 82.0% apartments, and 0.3% other dwelling types.
Housing in Dee Why consumes approximately 20.7% of median household income ($9,119 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Dee Why show attached dwellings contributing 11% of approvals compared to 85% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 89% of applications versus 15% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Dee Why is experiencing exceptional growth in housing density, ranking in the top 10% nationally.
Dee Why's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 61.9% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 82nd percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 78.5% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 2.9% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 83.3% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.6% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
Around 61.9% of people in the suburb of Dee Why are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.8% in Greater Sydney.
In the suburb of Dee Why, 2.9% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
6.1% of people in the suburb of Dee Why are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.4% of the population across Greater Sydney is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.8% of the suburb of Dee Why population, while in Greater Sydney, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.4% of people in the suburb of Dee Why have heart disease. Across Greater Sydney,3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Dee Why, 61.9% 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 | 94 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 94th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 87 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 67th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 9,498 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 94th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 292 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 95 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 0.8 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 36.9% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 87 public transport stops within the suburb of Dee Why.
The suburb of Dee Why has 9,498 weekly trips across 95 routes, averaging 1,356 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 106 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 280 m away and the nearest supermarket 365 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 87 stops nearby, 9,498 weekly trips, access rating 94 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 69 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 69th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 280 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 365 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 369 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 419 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest shopping centre | 444 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 447 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 505 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 535 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 538 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.6 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 6.1 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 6 long day care centres with 581 places in Dee Why, about 2.7 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 Dee Why 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 Dee Why.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Dee Why recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Dee Why ranks in the 53rd percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Dee Why's established property market has recorded 556 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 97% residential and 3% commercial transactions.
Population growth drivers in Dee Why are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Dee Why's population is slightly younger than the national pattern.
Income metrics indicate excellent economic conditions, with the area achieving higher performance than 76% of national locations assessed by AreaSearch.
The employment landscape in Dee Why shows performance that lags behind national averages across key labour market indicators.
Dee Why shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
Dee Why features high concentrations of group households but relatively few family households, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
Dee Why is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Dee Why features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with a higher proportion of rental properties than Greater Sydney.
Dee Why's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
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.
Dee Why has an estimated 25,608 residents, up 9.7% since the 2021 Census, with 11 projects tracked in Dee Why.
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 Dee Why.
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 Jun 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 15 Oct 2026 from sources that update on their own cycles; "See the evidence" lists each source and its cycle.
SAL boundaries are defined by Australia Post and the Australian Bureau of Statistics to represent commonly-known suburb names used in postal addresses.
Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census data collection and may combine multiple suburbs or 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 (SAL11229). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries (suburb-style geography). SAL represents commonly-known suburb names used in addresses, while Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census and statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
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 (Jun 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 Dee Why 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 Dee Why 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.
