Suburb profile · Greater Sydney
Little Bay has an estimated 5,101 residents, up 5.9% since the 2021 Census, with 74 projects tracked in the area around Little Bay.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Located 13 kilometres south-southeast from Sydney CBD, the suburb of Little Bay has an estimated population of around 5,101 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. (ERP) means Estimated Resident Population. The estimate is 284 people (5.9%) higher than the 4,817 people recorded in the 2021 Census. The community is somewhat older than a typical Australian area, with a median age of 42.
Little Bay sits within Malabar - La Perouse in NSW, Australia, a coastal area known for its beaches, biodiversity, Indigenous history and maritime heritage. Two national parks provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, alongside multiple golf courses, local eateries and shops. Its population shows strong expansion patterns.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Located 13 kilometres south-southeast from Sydney CBD, the suburb of Little Bay has an estimated population of around 5,101 as of Aug 2026, based on aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, and national address file data updated each quarter. (ERP) means Estimated Resident Population. The estimate is 284 people (5.9%) higher than the 4,817 people recorded in the 2021 Census. The community is somewhat older than a typical Australian area, with a median age of 42.
Little Bay sits within Malabar - La Perouse in NSW, Australia, a coastal area known for its beaches, biodiversity, Indigenous history and maritime heritage. Two national parks provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, alongside multiple golf courses, local eateries and shops. Its population shows strong expansion patterns.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 1,914 in 2006 and 5,086 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 5,101 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 35 to 44, 15.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 28.3%.
Little Bay ranks in the 99th percentile nationally for education and the 94th for income.
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 Little Bay is $1,220 a week, up 5.3% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 55% above Greater Sydney. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.1%.
55% above Greater Sydney on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $1,200 in 2017, $1,672 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $641 in 2017, $1,174 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1455 Anzac Parade, Little Bay NSW 2036 | $3,400,000 | 21 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 2 Murra Murra Place, Little Bay NSW 2036 | $7,175,000 | 31 Aug 2026 | Street address |
| 65 Mirrabooka Crescent, Little Bay NSW 2036 | $2,210,000 | 14 Aug 2026 | Street address |
| 303/1 Pavilion Drive, Little Bay NSW 2036 | $2,250,000 | 13 Aug 2026 | Unit |
| 314/3 Pine Avenue, Little Bay NSW 2036 | $1,800,000 | 13 Aug 2026 | Unit |
| 13/1 Fleming Street, Little Bay NSW 2036 | $1,300,000 | 10 Aug 2026 | Unit |
| 420/1 Cawood Avenue, Little Bay NSW 2036 | $1,800,000 | 7 Aug 2026 | Unit |
| 29/12 Jenner Street, Little Bay NSW 2036 | $2,390,000 | 6 Aug 2026 | Unit |
| 308/2 Galaup Street, Little Bay NSW 2036 | $855,000 | 6 Aug 2026 | Unit |
| 9/2 Gubbuteh Road, Little Bay NSW 2036 | $905,000 | 27 Jul 2026 | Unit |
The 10 most recent of the 50 residential sales recorded since 22 Jan 2026 (the latest settled 21 Sep 2026), newest first. The median of these 50, houses and units together, was $2,100,000 (a different set from the medians above). Source: NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch, to September 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 | $1,220 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +5.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.1% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $2.79m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $1.72m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $2,100,000 | Median of the 50 most recent residential sales, settled 22 Jan 2026 to 21 Sep 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $1,672 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +4.2% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $1,174 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +4.7% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 3.1% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 3.7% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Eastern Suburbs - South | $907 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Eastern Suburbs - South, over 12 months | +3.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Sydney - Eastern Suburbs | $974 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Sydney - Eastern Suburbs, 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 |
See the development applications we track, then draw your own catchment and map retailers, health, schools and more.
Status of the 62 tracked applications: 37 approved, 12 under assessment, 13 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Little Bay, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 74 projects in and around Little Bay, 13 of them under construction.
A medium-density residential development of 16 two-storey dwellings (eight detached villas and eight duplexes) with a shared basement. The project has a strong focus on ecological sustainability and architectural integration with the coastal environment.
$500,000 emergency access path project for Little Bay Beach to allow ambulance and police direct access. Includes accessible boardwalk construction and environmental protection measures.
Three residential buildings up to four storeys, housing 75 apartments ranging from one to three bedrooms with shared basement parking for 117 vehicles. Involves preserving Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub vegetation.
Construction of an accessible amenities building for users of Malabar Ocean Pool and the Coastal Walkway. The scope includes unisex toilets, change cubicles, fully accessible facilities, a regraded car park, shared zones, bike racks, and landscaping designed by Sam Crawford Architects to integrate sensitively into the coastal reserve.
A controversial proposal from Meriton for a large-scale, high-rise residential development at Little Bay. The proposal has faced community and council opposition and is currently under consideration by the NSW Government for its 'fast-track' Rezoning Pathways Program. The proposal is for over 1,000 new dwellings in towers up to 22 storeys.
Rebuild of the Kurnell Visitor Centre within Kamay Botany Bay National Park. The old centre was demolished and a new facility is under construction, delivering exhibition space, education and learning areas, amenities, and park operations offices. Construction is scheduled for completion in 2026.
Reconstruction of the Heffron Park Central amenities block adjacent to the netball courts in Maroubra, funded by the NSW Government under the Level Playing Field Program in association with Randwick City Council.
Major subsea cable landing infrastructure for Google's Pacific Connect Initiative, supporting the Tabua and Honomoana transpacific cables connecting Australia to the United States, Fiji, and French Polynesia.
Withdrawn State Significant Development SSD-10373 for a thermal energy-from-waste cogeneration plant at the Opal Botany Mill site. The Suez/Veolia and Opal proposal sought to process about 165000 tonnes of residual waste per year to produce steam and electricity for the mill.
A major urban renewal project by Landcom, transforming the former Prince Henry Hospital site into a new residential and community precinct. The project includes a mix of over 1,000 homes, renovated heritage buildings, aged care accommodation, commercial facilities, and a community centre.
Homes NSW and Bridge Housing affordable housing redevelopment replacing 33 existing dwellings with 144 new units in 6 apartment buildings (four 3-storey and two 3-4-storey). The development will feature 94 affordable homes and 50 social housing homes, a communal room, basement car parking, and landscaped open space.
Mixed-use development comprising 65 apartments over 6-7 levels with 9 commercial tenancies on the ground floor and 3 levels of basement car parking for 136 spaces. The project was approved in December 2018 but remains in pre-construction phase.
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 26 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 2, 2026 10, 2027 8, 2028 4, 2029 1, 2030 0, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 1. 21 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 62 substantial development applications lodged in and around Little Bay over the period covered (about 3.9 years), 41 in the last 12 months; 12 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2022 (part year) 1, 2023 1, 2024 8, 2025 16, 2026 (to Oct) 36.
Key application 11-27 Jennifer Street, Little Bay Multi-Resi | $37m | 76 dwellings Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 62 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 3.9 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 41 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 7.0 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 75th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 34 | ABS building approvals | 46th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 37 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 3.9 years) | |
| Applications under assessment | 12 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 3.9 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Little Bay include: Kamay Ferry Wharves (Completed); Bidhiinja Beach (Planning); Mariyung Fleet (New Intercity Fleet) (Construction); Rail Service Improvement Program (Construction); and Sydney Metro Program (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Little Bay spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Residential Development, and Ports, Marinas, Fisheries & Aquaculture, among others.
With an infrastructure score in the top 30%, the suburb of Little Bay demonstrates above-average development activity compared to national benchmarks.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Little Bay recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Little Bay area has seen 57 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Little Bay's current population of 5,101 has been supported by 34 approvals on average over recent years.
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Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Little Bay's approval levels have been below the yearly average of 34, indicating a recent decline in approval activity.
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Little Bay has grown by approximately 141 people, while 171 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 0.8 people added for each new dwelling approval. This low ratio indicates housing supply is outpacing population growth, potentially creating market oversupply.
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 Little Bay 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 | 5,101 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +5.9% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 2,076 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 71st percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | +0.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +1.6% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 4,817 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 284 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.7% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 2.46 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Little Bay was estimated to be approximately 5,101 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 5,086 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Little Bay has added approximately 284 people and shown a 5.90% increase from the 4,817 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Little Bay is estimated at 2,074 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Little Bay has shown a compound annual growth rate of 1.6% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Little Bay is driven by: Overseas migration (100.0%), Natural increase (0.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 100.0% of overall population gains.
Little Bay's median age exceeds the national pattern.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 42 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 67th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 21.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 15.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 23.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 52.2% | 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 | 42 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 5.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 9.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 10.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 13.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 15.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 12.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 11.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 10.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 8.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Little Bay at 42 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 42 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 42 years as at August 2026, Little Bay is 5 years older than the Greater Sydney 2021 Census average (37 years) and 4 years older than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Little Bay compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 75 - 84 group, making up 8.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Little Bay compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 13.2% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Little Bay show significant variance compared to Greater Sydney. The most over-represented age groups are 85+ year-olds (3.3% vs 2.1%) and 75-84 year-olds (8.2% vs 5.3%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 15.4% of the population in the suburb of Little Bay as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 21.9% of the population in the suburb of Little Bay as at August 2026.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 6% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $80,193 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 96th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $109,808 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,364 | 2021 Census, weekly | 86th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $1,141 | 2021 Census, weekly | 87th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 38.4% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $3,002 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 20.2% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Little Bay is approximately $85,309. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $80,193.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Little Bay is approximately $116,814. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $109,808.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Little Bay is approximately $85,309 compared to $67,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $80,193 and $63,183 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Little Bay is approximately $116,814 compared to $92,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $109,808 and $86,684 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Little Bay's households (~28.3% / 525 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Little Bay is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 28.3% 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 Little Bay is $2,364/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Little Bay is $3,002/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Little Bay is $1,141/wk.
According to AreaSearch's aggregation of the latest postcode level ATO data released for FY-24, the suburb of Little Bay had a median income among taxpayers of $80,193 with the average level standing at $109,808. This is among the top percentile nationally and compares to levels of $63,183 and $86,684 across Greater Sydney respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $85,309 (median) and $116,814 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Little Bay is $8,302 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Little Bay's disposable income is $8,302 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch assessment indicates Little Bay faces employment challenges relative to the majority of Australian markets.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 7.4% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 61.8% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,463 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 4,276 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,661 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Little Bay has approximately 2,463 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 7.4%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Little Bay stands at 7.4%, which is 3.3 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 Little Bay is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (13.1% of employment), professional & technical (11.4%), and construction (10.8%). Other significant employers include education & training and public administration & safety.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Little Bay has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing 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 Little Bay is 61.8%, 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%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The suburb of Little Bay shows notable specialisation in public administration & safety, which employs 9.0% of the local workforce compared to 5.7% across Greater Sydney. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this 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 Little Bay'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.
Little Bay demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 1% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 26.7% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 13.1% | 2021 Census | 85th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 42.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 18.0% | 2021 Census | 29th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.8% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 12.2% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 27.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 27.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 5.2% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 9.7% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.4% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
42.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Little Bay have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in Greater Sydney.
27.2% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Little Bay have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% in Greater Sydney.
The suburb of Little Bay ranks in the 99th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Little Bay are: Bachelor Degree (26.7%), Certificate (18.0%), Postgraduate (13.1%).
27.8% of the population in the suburb of Little Bay is currently engaged in formal education, including 9.7% in primary school, 6.4% in secondary school, 5.2% at university (all shares of total residents).
Little Bay features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 28.1% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 31.3% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 30.4% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 6.9% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 2.4% | 2021 Census | 38th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,857 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,966 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 69.0% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.4 per family | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Little Bay had 1,857 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 5.9% to an estimated 1,966 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Little Bay is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.7 in Greater Sydney and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 69.0% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (28.1%), group households (2.4%), and other household types (0.5%).
Of the 1,281 family households, couples with children account for 31.3% of all households, couples without children at home 30.4%, and single parent families 6.9%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Sydney, the suburb of Little Bay shows distinct household patterns. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Little Bay have an average of 1.4 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 49.1% of the adult population are currently married, while 32.9% have never married. This compares to 48.3% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Sydney.
Single-person households represent 28.1% of all households in the suburb of Little Bay, similar to the average for Greater Sydney of 23.2%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 2.4% of households, below the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Little Bay was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets in Australia, upon assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 39.4% | 2021 Census | 79th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 27.4% | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 72.6% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 81.2% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 60.6% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.9% | 2021 Census | 60th percentile nationally |
Little Bay scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 27.4% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 39.4% born overseas.
The main religion in Little Bay was found to be Christianity, which makes up 56.6% of people in Little Bay. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 2.7% 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 Little Bay are English, comprising 21.6% of the population, Australian, comprising 16.4% of the population, and Other, comprising 12.2% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: French is notably overrepresented at 2.0% of Little Bay (vs 0.5% across Greater Sydney), Russian at 1.1% (vs 0.4%) and Polish at 1.3% (vs 0.6%).
39.4% of the suburb of Little Bay population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% across Greater Sydney.
27.4% of the population in the suburb of Little Bay speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in Greater Sydney.
1.9% of the suburb of Little Bay population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in Greater Sydney.
81.2% of the suburb of Little Bay population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in Greater Sydney.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Little Bay features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 41.7% | 2021 Census | 80th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 29.1% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Apartments | 55.4% | 2021 Census | 93rd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $3,000 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 96th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 29.2% | 2021 Census | 27th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 15.6% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $590 | 2021 Census, weekly | 96th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 25.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 29.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 86th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 1.0 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Little Bay, 29.1% of homes are owned outright, 29.2% are owned with a mortgage, and 41.7% are rented.
According to the latest data, 29.0% of dwellings in the suburb of Little Bay are houses.
In the suburb of Little Bay, 55.4% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 15.6% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Little Bay stands at 29.1%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Little Bay is $3,000, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Little Bay is $1,942, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Little Bay, households with mortgages typically spend 29.3% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 25.0% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Little Bay is 1.0, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Little Bay shows mortgage holders spending 29.3% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% in Greater Sydney), while renters spend 25.0% of income on rent (vs 22.6% in Greater Sydney).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Little Bay consists of 29.0% detached houses, 15.6% semi-detached dwellings, 55.4% apartments, and 0.0% other dwelling types.
Housing in Little Bay consumes approximately 19.0% of median household income ($10,236 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Little Bay show attached dwellings contributing 74% of approvals compared to 71% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 26% of applications versus 29% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Little Bay's residents are extremely healthy relative to locations nationally with younger cohorts in particular seeing very low prevalence of common health conditions.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 68.8% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 90th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 73.6% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.2% | 2021 Census | 28th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 83.7% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.6% | 2021 Census | 16th percentile nationally |
Around 68.8% of people in the suburb of Little Bay are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.8% in Greater Sydney.
In the suburb of Little Bay, 4.2% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
5.2% of people in the suburb of Little Bay are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.4% of the population across Greater Sydney is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 3.7% of the suburb of Little Bay population, while in Greater Sydney, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.4% of people in the suburb of Little Bay have heart disease. Across Greater Sydney,3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Little Bay, 68.8% 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 | 86 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 86th percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 37 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 34th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 2,266 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 54th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 138 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 17 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.2 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 46.4% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 37 public transport stops within the suburb of Little Bay.
The suburb of Little Bay has 2,266 weekly trips across 17 routes, averaging 323 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 180 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 294 m away and the nearest pharmacy 385 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 37 stops nearby, 2,266 weekly trips, access rating 86 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 50 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 50th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 294 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 385 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 405 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 412 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest supermarket | 416 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 779 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 2.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 2.7 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 4.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 4.2 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 is 1 long day care centre with 86 places in Little Bay, about 2.5 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 Little Bay 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 Little Bay.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees Little Bay recording a relatively average level of approval activity when compared to local markets analysed countrywide.
Little Bay has strong levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 15% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Little Bay's strong property market has recorded 82 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 99% residential and 1% vacant land transactions.
Population growth drivers in Little Bay are strong compared to national averages based on AreaSearch's ranking of recent, and medium to long-term trends.
Little Bay's median age exceeds the national pattern.
The economic profile demonstrates exceptional strength, placing the area among the top 6% nationally based on comprehensive AreaSearch income analysis.
AreaSearch assessment indicates Little Bay faces employment challenges relative to the majority of Australian markets.
Little Bay demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 1% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
Little Bay features high concentrations of couples without children but relatively few single parent families, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
Little Bay was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets in Australia, upon assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Little Bay features a more urban dwelling mix with significant apartment living, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Little Bay's residents are extremely healthy relative to locations nationally with younger cohorts in particular seeing very low prevalence of common health conditions.
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 in line with the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Little Bay has an estimated 5,101 residents, up 5.9% since the 2021 Census, with 74 projects tracked in the area around Little Bay.
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 Little Bay.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Sep 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Jul 2025. 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 (SAL12358). 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 (Jul 2025) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, 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 Little Bay 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 Little Bay 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.
