Suburb profile · Greater Sydney
Malabar has an estimated 4,860 residents, up 3.1% since the 2021 Census, with 83 projects tracked in the area around Malabar.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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The suburb of Malabar sits 12 kilometres south-southeast of the Sydney CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is estimated at around 4,860 as of August 2026, derived from aggregated SA2-level ERP counts released yearly and national address file data updated each quarter. That represents an increase of 146 people (3.1%) since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 4,714 people. The community is strongly educated, with notable employment in arts and recreation, a high share of apartments, and pronounced employment in education. Residents include an elevated share of 45 to 54 year olds, and local schools show strong performance.
A standout feature of the suburb is its high proportion of middle-aged residents and an exceptionally well-educated population. Sales volumes are notably low relative to the population.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Malabar sits 12 kilometres south-southeast of the Sydney CBD. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is estimated at around 4,860 as of August 2026, derived from aggregated SA2-level ERP counts released yearly and national address file data updated each quarter. That represents an increase of 146 people (3.1%) since the 2021 Census, which reported a population of 4,714 people. The community is strongly educated, with notable employment in arts and recreation, a high share of apartments, and pronounced employment in education. Residents include an elevated share of 45 to 54 year olds, and local schools show strong performance.
A standout feature of the suburb is its high proportion of middle-aged residents and an exceptionally well-educated population. Sales volumes are notably low relative to the population.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 4,891 in 2006 and 4,855 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 4,860 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 45 to 54, 15.5%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $4000+, 26.9%.
Malabar ranks in the 95th percentile nationally for education and the 90th for infrastructure drivers.
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 Malabar is $538 a week, up 5.3% over 12 months to Jun 2026 and 32% below Greater Sydney. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 0.9%.
32% below Greater Sydney on median weekly rent
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $528 in 2017, $737 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $282 in 2017, $518 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 119 Bilga Crescent, Malabar NSW 2036 | $4,000,000 | 28 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 148 Prince Edward Street, Malabar NSW 2036 | $4,225,000 | 24 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 15 Prince Edward Street, Malabar NSW 2036 | $2,660,000 | 15 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 136 Bilga Crescent, Malabar NSW 2036 | $4,500,000 | 14 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 6 Woli Place, Malabar NSW 2036 | $6,360,000 | 3 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 1/34 Austral Street, Malabar NSW 2036 | $2,015,000 | 1 Sep 2026 | Unit |
| 2 Dacre Lane, Malabar NSW 2036 | $3,500,000 | 26 Aug 2026 | Street address |
| 135 Bilga Crescent, Malabar NSW 2036 | $2,120,000 | 26 Aug 2026 | Street address |
| 3/9 Adams Avenue, Malabar NSW 2036 | $910,000 | 21 Aug 2026 | Unit |
| 34 Lucas Avenue, Malabar NSW 2036 | $3,560,000 | 18 Jun 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 50 residential sales recorded since 16 Jul 2025 (the latest settled 28 Sep 2026), newest first. The median of these 50, houses and units together, was $3,405,000 (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 | $538 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 | 0.9% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $3.53m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $910k | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $3,405,000 | Median of the 50 most recent residential sales, settled 16 Jul 2025 to 28 Sep 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $737 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 | $518 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +4.8% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 1.1% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 1.8% | 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 70 tracked applications: 39 approved, 16 under assessment, 15 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Malabar, then export the list.
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AreaSearch tracks 83 projects in and around Malabar, 18 of them under construction.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Upgrade of existing coastal walkway between Maroubra and South Maroubra Beaches with continuous raised boardwalk, viewing platforms, and enhanced accessibility features.
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.
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.
$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.
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.
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.
Randwick City Council purchased a private property at Cuzco Street, South Coogee for $4.9 million in November 2024 to demolish it and construct a new public walkway linking South Coogee and Lurline Bay. The connection closes a long-standing gap in the Eastern Beaches Coastal Walkway that currently forces walkers to detour inland to Malabar Road.
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 30 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2025 4, 2026 9, 2027 11, 2028 3, 2029 2, 2030 0, 2031 0, 2032 0, 2033 0, 2034 0, 2035 0, 2036 1. 24 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 70 substantial development applications lodged in and around Malabar over the past 5 years, 55 in the last 12 months; 16 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 1, 2022 6, 2023 4, 2024 3, 2025 1, 2026 (to Oct) 55.
Key application 2A Victoria Street, Malabar Retail | $1.2m
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 70 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 55 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 2.2 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 29th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 10 | ABS building approvals | 20th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 39 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 16 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Malabar include: Malabar Ocean Pool Accessible Amenities Building (Planning); Google Pacific Connect - Tabua and Honomoana Cable Landing Infrastructure (Construction); Yorktown Parade and Fitzgerald Avenue Affordable Housing Redevelopment (Approved); Light Rail Extension to Maroubra Junction (Proposed); and Heffron Centre (Completed). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Malabar spans multiple sectors including Transport & Logistics, Residential Development, and Sports & Recreation, among others.
The suburb of Malabar ranks in the top 20% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Malabar is exceptionally low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Malabar area has seen 14 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Malabar's current population of 4,860 has been supported by 10 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Malabar has seen 2.2 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 689 people in the suburb of Malabar, 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 Malabar's approval levels have been significantly below the yearly average of 10, showing a notable downturn in recent development.
Over the past five years, the suburb of Malabar has seen 52 residential approvals while population has remained stable or declined, indicating potential 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.
Malabar is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 4,860 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +3.1% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,360 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 58th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | -0.8% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | -1.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 4,714 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 146 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | +1.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 3.57 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Malabar was estimated to be approximately 4,860 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 4,855 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Malabar has added approximately 146 people and shown a 3.10% increase from the 4,714 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Malabar is estimated at 1,361 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Malabar has shown a compound annual growth rate of -1.3% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Malabar 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.
Malabar hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 46 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 22.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 11.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 24.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 53.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age at the 2021 Census | 46 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 2.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 8.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 13.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 11.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 15.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 14.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 11.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 7.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 2.8% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Malabar at 46 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 46 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 46 years as at August 2026, Malabar is 9 years older than the Greater Sydney 2021 Census average (37 years) and 8 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 Malabar compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 55 - 64 group, making up 14.4% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Malabar compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 11.3% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Malabar show significant variance compared to Greater Sydney. The most over-represented age groups are 75-84 year-olds (7.8% vs 5.3%) and 65-74 year-olds (11.7% vs 8.2%). The most under-represented age group is 0-4 year-olds (2.8% vs 5.5%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 11.0% of the population in the suburb of Malabar as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 22.3% of the population in the suburb of Malabar as at August 2026.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $57,632 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 44th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $78,915 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,790 | 2021 Census, weekly | 52nd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $820 | 2021 Census, weekly | 53rd percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 36.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,822 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 31.3% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Malabar is approximately $61,309. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $57,632.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Malabar is approximately $83,950. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $78,915.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Malabar is approximately $61,309 compared to $67,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $57,632 and $63,183 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Malabar is approximately $83,950 compared to $92,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $78,915 and $86,684 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Malabar's households (~26.9% / 358 households) is the $4000+ cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Malabar is the $4000+ group, representing about 26.9% 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 Malabar is $1,790/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Malabar is $2,822/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Malabar is $820/wk.
AreaSearch's latest postcode level ATO data for FY-24 reveals that income in the suburb of Malabar is well above average nationally, with the median assessed at $57,632 while the average income stands at $78,915. This contrasts to Greater Sydney's figures of a median income of $63,183 and an average income of $86,684. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $61,309 (median) and $83,950 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Malabar is $6,475 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Malabar's disposable income is $6,475 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch assessment indicates Malabar faces employment challenges relative to the majority of Australian markets.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 9.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 51.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 2,014 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 4,587 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 2,213 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Malabar has approximately 2,014 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 9.0%. 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 Malabar stands at 9.0%, which is 4.9 percentage points above Greater Sydney's rate of 4.1%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Malabar is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are education & training (13.3% of employment), health care & social assistance (13.3%), and professional & technical (11.9%). Other significant employers include construction and retail trade.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Malabar 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 Malabar is 51.0%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This moderate participation rate suggests some residents may face barriers to workforce entry. The local rate trailing the Greater Sydney average of 68.9%, suggesting potential for increased workforce participation.
The suburb of Malabar shows notable specialisation in education & training, which employs 13.3% of the local workforce compared to 8.9% 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 Malabar'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.
Malabar demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 5% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 24.4% | 2021 Census | 74th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 12.0% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 38.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 23.6% | 2021 Census | 45th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 2.2% | 2021 Census | 44th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 12.4% | 2021 Census | 84th percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 25.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 45.2% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 8.0% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 14.8% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 15.1% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
38.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Malabar have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in Greater Sydney.
25.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Malabar have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% in Greater Sydney.
The suburb of Malabar ranks in the 95th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Malabar are: Bachelor Degree (24.4%), Certificate (23.6%), Advanced Diploma (12.4%).
45.2% of the population in the suburb of Malabar is currently engaged in formal education, including 14.8% in primary school, 15.1% in secondary school, 8.0% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Malabar is 1081, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 2 schools within the suburb of Malabar, with a combined enrollment of approximately 673 students.
The suburb of Malabar includes 2 primary schools.
Malabar features high concentrations of lone person households but relatively few couples without children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.6 people | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 29.9% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 35.9% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 20.4% | 2021 Census | 9th percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 10.8% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 1.7% | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 1,333 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 1,374 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 68.7% | 2021 Census | 39th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.6 per family | 2021 Census | 46th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Malabar had 1,333 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 3.1% to an estimated 1,374 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Malabar is 2.6 people. This compares to 2.7 in Greater Sydney and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 68.7% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (29.9%), group households (1.7%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 916 family households, couples with children account for 35.9% of all households, couples without children at home 20.4%, and single parent families 10.8%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Sydney, the suburb of Malabar shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 29.9% (versus 23.2% in Greater Sydney). This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
Families in the suburb of Malabar have an average of 1.6 children, slightly above the Greater Sydney average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 43.0% of the adult population are currently married, while 40.6% have never married. This compares to 48.3% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Sydney.
Single-person households represent 29.9% of all households in the suburb of Malabar, 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 1.7% of households, below the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Malabar was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 27.1% | 2021 Census | 58th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 20.1% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 79.9% | 2021 Census | 36th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 68.9% | 2021 Census | 6th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 72.9% | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 2.7% | 2021 Census | 70th percentile nationally |
Malabar was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets, with 27.1% of its population born overseas and 20.1% speaking a language other than English at home.
The main religion in Malabar was found to be Christianity, which makes up 64.4% of people in Malabar. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 1.8% 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 Malabar are English, comprising 23.5% of the population, Australian, comprising 20.9% of the population, and Irish, comprising 10.5% of the population. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: French is notably overrepresented at 1.6% of Malabar (vs 0.5% across Greater Sydney), Hungarian at 0.7% (vs 0.3%) and Russian at 0.7% (vs 0.4%).
27.1% of the suburb of Malabar population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% across Greater Sydney.
20.1% of the population in the suburb of Malabar speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in Greater Sydney.
2.7% of the suburb of Malabar population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in Greater Sydney.
68.9% of the suburb of Malabar population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in Greater Sydney.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Malabar displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 35.8% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 37.3% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 62.0% | 2021 Census | 20th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $3,900 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 99th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 26.9% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 12.1% | 2021 Census | 64th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $150 | 2021 Census, weekly | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 8.4% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 50.3% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 99th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Malabar, 37.3% of homes are owned outright, 26.9% are owned with a mortgage, and 35.8% are rented.
According to the latest data, 62.0% of dwellings in the suburb of Malabar are houses.
In the suburb of Malabar, 25.6% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 12.1% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Malabar stands at 37.3%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Malabar is $3,900, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Malabar is $1,281, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Malabar, households with mortgages typically spend 50.3% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 8.4% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Malabar is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Malabar shows mortgage holders spending 50.3% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% in Greater Sydney), while renters spend 8.4% of income on rent (vs 22.6% in Greater Sydney).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Malabar consists of 62.0% detached houses, 12.1% semi-detached dwellings, 25.6% apartments, and 0.4% other dwelling types.
Housing in Malabar consumes approximately 16.5% of median household income ($7,751 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Malabar show attached dwellings contributing 75% of approvals compared to 38% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 25% of applications versus 62% of current dwellings. This suggests increasing densification. This area is seeing substantial increases in dwelling density compared to most Australian locations.
Health in Malabar: private health cover 56.4%, no long-term health condition 68.1%.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 56.4% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 64th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 68.1% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.4% | 2021 Census | 51st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 78.6% | 2021 Census | 66th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 1.3% | 2021 Census | 50th percentile nationally |
Around 56.4% of people in the suburb of Malabar are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.8% in Greater Sydney.
In the suburb of Malabar, 5.4% 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 Malabar are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.4% of the population across Greater Sydney is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 4.4% of the suburb of Malabar population, while in Greater Sydney, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
4.7% of people in the suburb of Malabar have heart disease. Across Greater Sydney,3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Malabar, 56.4% 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 | 69 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 56th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 1,698 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 46th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 71 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 11 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 1.3 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 47.5% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 69 public transport stops within the suburb of Malabar.
The suburb of Malabar has 1,698 weekly trips across 11 routes, averaging 242 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 127 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 379 m away and the nearest hospital 666 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 69 stops nearby, 1,698 weekly trips, access rating 86 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 57 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 57th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 379 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 666 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 668 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 703 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 713 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.2 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 2.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 3.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 3.5 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 2 long day care centres with 120 places in Malabar, about 1.7 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 Malabar 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 Malabar.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Malabar is exceptionally low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Malabar has exceptionally high levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the top 10% nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Malabar's resilient property market has recorded 34 sales in the 12 months to June 2026, comprising 100% residential transactions.
Malabar is positioned among the lower quartile of areas assessed nationally for population growth based on AreaSearch's assessment of recent, and medium term trends.
Malabar hosts an older demographic, ranking in the top quartile nationwide.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
AreaSearch assessment indicates Malabar faces employment challenges relative to the majority of Australian markets.
Malabar demonstrates exceptional educational outcomes, ranking among the top 5% of areas nationally based on AreaSearch's comprehensive analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
Malabar features high concentrations of lone person households but relatively few couples without children, with a smaller average household size than Greater Sydney.
The level of cultural diversity witnessed in Malabar was found to be above average when compared nationally for a number of language and cultural background related metrics.
Malabar displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Health in Malabar: private health cover 56.4%, no long-term health condition 68.1%.
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.
Malabar has an estimated 4,860 residents, up 3.1% since the 2021 Census, with 83 projects tracked in the area around Malabar.
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 Malabar.
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 Aug 2026. Housing, households and cultural diversity are from the 2021 Census (next update with the 2026 Census results).
Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, and are labelled as such. Other sections were compiled 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 (SAL12462). 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 (Aug 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Malabar 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 Malabar 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.
