Suburb profile · Greater Sydney
Prestons has an estimated 15,546 residents, down 0.9% since the 2021 Census, with 51 projects tracked in the area around Prestons.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
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Located 33 kilometres west-southwest of the Sydney CBD, the suburb of Prestons is estimated by AreaSearch to have around 15,546 residents as of Aug 2026. That figure is derived from aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, which are released yearly, alongside national address file data updated each quarter. Population has changed only minimally since the 2021 Census, which recorded 15,694 people.
The suburb shows a strong share of mortgage holders, an above-average household size, and a high population born overseas, along with a notable proportion of residents aged 15 to 24. Median incomes rank among the highest nationally, and the local employment base is elevated in logistics and transport. Its standout features include a high proportion of teenagers, a middle-aged population made up largely of family households and couples with children, and a highly culturally diverse community. Significant infrastructure and major project spending is planned, which should support performance and demand.
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01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
Located 33 kilometres west-southwest of the Sydney CBD, the suburb of Prestons is estimated by AreaSearch to have around 15,546 residents as of Aug 2026. That figure is derived from aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, which are released yearly, alongside national address file data updated each quarter. Population has changed only minimally since the 2021 Census, which recorded 15,694 people.
The suburb shows a strong share of mortgage holders, an above-average household size, and a high population born overseas, along with a notable proportion of residents aged 15 to 24. Median incomes rank among the highest nationally, and the local employment base is elevated in logistics and transport. Its standout features include a high proportion of teenagers, a middle-aged population made up largely of family households and couples with children, and a highly culturally diverse community. Significant infrastructure and major project spending is planned, which should support performance and demand.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 12,600 in 2006 and 15,542 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 15,546 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 15 to 24, 18.4%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 37.4%.
Prestons ranks in the 89th percentile nationally for cultural diversity and the 82nd 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 Prestons is $790 a week, little changed over 12 months to Jun 2026. The gross rental yield across all dwellings is 3.5%.
Median weekly rent by year, lodged bonds. Houses (solid line): $658 in 2017, $922 in 2026; Units (dashed orange line): $510 in 2017, $711 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 Dalmeny Drive, Prestons NSW 2170 | $1,246,500 | 22 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 4 Mogo Court, Prestons NSW 2170 | $1,100,000 | 15 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 25 Richlands Place, Prestons NSW 2170 | $1,145,000 | 6 Oct 2026 | Street address |
| 10 Burragate Crescent, Prestons NSW 2170 | $1,420,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 17 Arras Place, Prestons NSW 2170 | $1,100,000 | 25 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 39 Greenwell Road, Prestons NSW 2170 | $1,020,000 | 21 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 70 Barcelona Drive, Prestons NSW 2170 | $1,120,000 | 18 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 28 Narooma Drive, Prestons NSW 2170 | $1,015,000 | 11 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 7 Penrose Close, Prestons NSW 2170 | $170,000 | 11 Sep 2026 | Street address |
| 6 Dee Close, Prestons NSW 2170 | $625,000 | 2 Sep 2026 | Street address |
The 10 most recent of the 47 residential sales recorded since 7 May 2026 (the latest settled 22 Oct 2026), newest first. The median of these 47, houses and units together, was $1,185,000 (a different set from the medians above). Source: NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch, to October 2026. Commercial, vacant land and nominal sales are left out. Unit means the address has a unit number; a street address has none.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $790 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | 0.0% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, all dwellings | 3.5% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median house price | $1.22m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date | |
| Median unit price | $1.00m | Contract-date median, 2026 to date |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median price, latest residential sales | $1,185,000 | Median of the 47 most recent residential sales, settled 7 May 2026 to 22 Oct 2026, NSW Valuer General / AreaSearch | |
| Median rent, houses | $922 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for houses over 12 months | +0.4% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, units | $711 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent for units over 12 months | +1.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Gross rental yield, houses | 4.0% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Gross rental yield, units | 3.6% | AreaSearch estimate, indicative: rents and sales come from different property pools | |
| Median rent, Liverpool | $662 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Liverpool, over 12 months | +0.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Sydney - South West | $668 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Sydney - South West, over 12 months | +2.7% | 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 187 tracked applications: 104 approved, 43 under assessment, 40 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
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AreaSearch tracks 51 projects in and around Prestons, 13 of them under construction.
Upgrade of the M5 Motorway westbound between Moorebank Avenue and the Hume Highway to reduce congestion and improve safety. Key features include a new three-lane bridge over the Georges River and rail corridors, removal of the traffic weave, additional lanes, improved freight access, and a new shared user path for pedestrians and cyclists.
Residential subdivision development in Prestons featuring 33 registered lots for modern family living. The estate is nestled in a quiet community with easy access to Edmondson Park railway station, plus M5 and M7 highways. Over 90% sold, marketed by Australian Land & Housing.
Large-scale industrial warehouse and distribution centre development by ESR Group (formerly LOGOS Property). Prestons Logistics Estate features world-class logistics facilities spanning over 141,000sqm, with major tenants including Toll, Volvo Group Australia, and The Gateway Group.
A 20,330 sqm (approx 5 acres) residential development site zoned R2 Low Density within the San Marino Estate in Prestons, NSW. It is currently listed for sale and offers potential for low-density housing subdivision.
A council-led aquatic and recreation centre at the Carnes Hill Recreation and Community Precinct, Liverpool. Stage 1 includes a 25m eight-lane indoor pool, a dedicated learn-to-swim pool, a children's splash pad and a cafe kiosk, supported by $53.4 million in NSW Government Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants funding.
Construction is underway on 106 tri-level terrace homes (Lot 1: 43 terraces, Lot 2: 63 terraces) at Chapter Place, on Buchan Avenue in Edmondson Park. Developed and built by Urban Property Group and designed by Cox Architecture, the 3 and 4 bedroom terraces feature rooftop terraces, private entries and garages.
Edmondson Park is a 425-hectare urban renewal masterplan in Sydney's South West Growth Area, planned to deliver around 8,000 homes. Developers include Landcom, Frasers Property Australia, Dahua Group and Urban Property Group.
Ed.Square is a $1.5 billion masterplanned community by Frasers Property Australia in Sydney's South West, designed as a 100% walkable urban village adjacent to the Edmondson Park train station. The precinct integrates over 1,800 residences alongside a 40,000 sqm Town Centre featuring 90+ retailers, an Eat Street dining hub, Event Cinemas, and iPlay.
Large-format retail centre enhancement project on 14.3 hectare site featuring 38 homewares retailers. LaSalle Investment Management identified significant development upside with opportunities to expand and redevelop existing buildings. Recent $3 million refurbishment completed with new food and beverage precinct.
Construction of a major 48 ML flood detention basin facility incorporating nine bioretention cells, two stormwater wetlands, and trunk drainage infrastructure.
Major mixed-use town centre development including Ed.Square by Frasers Property and The Edmondson Collection by ALAND. It features around 3,500 dwellings, 40,000sqm of retail space, over 120 shops, a Coles supermarket, Event Cinemas, and extensive community open space, providing comprehensive services and amenities directly adjacent to Edmondson Park…
A $135.5 million mixed-use development by Bathla Group comprising 598 apartments across four stages in buildings ranging from 4 to 9 storeys, 1,289.90 sqm of retail space, basement parking for 926 vehicles, landscaping, and associated structures.
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: 2026 5, 2027 7, 2028 8, 2029 1, 2030 4, 2031 0, 2032 1. 9 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 187 substantial development applications lodged in and around Prestons over the past 5 years, 85 in the last 12 months; 43 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2021 (part year) 8, 2022 37, 2023 22, 2024 19, 2025 19, 2026 (to Nov) 82.
Key application 115-121 Jedda Road, Prestons Commercial | $26m Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 187 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 85 | 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 | 35 | ABS building approvals | 47th percentile nationally |
| Applications approved | 104 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years | |
| Applications under assessment | 43 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, last 5 years |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Prestons include: Prestons Grove Estate (Construction); Prestons Logistics Estate (Completed); 44 Manildra Street Residential Development Site (Proposed); Edmondson Park Precinct Development (Construction); and Basin 14 Edmondson Park Flood Detention Basin (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Prestons spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Retail, among others.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees a low level of activity in Prestons, placing the area among the bottom 21% of areas assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Prestons area has seen 93 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Prestons's current population of 15,546 has been supported by 35 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Prestons 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 334 people in the suburb of Prestons, 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 Prestons's approval levels have been significantly above the yearly average of 35, indicating strong recent growth in development activity.
Over the past five years, the suburb of Prestons has seen 175 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.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Prestons reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 15,546 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | -0.9% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 4th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,687 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 64th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | -0.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | 0.0% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 15,694 | 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | -0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | -0.1% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 9.21 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Prestons was estimated to be approximately 15,546 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 15,542 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Prestons has lost approximately 148 people and shown a 0.94% decrease from the 15,694 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Prestons is estimated at 1,688 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Prestons has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.0% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Prestons is driven by: Overseas migration (67.0%), Natural increase (33.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 67.0% of overall population gains.
Prestons hosts a young demographic, positioning it in the bottom quartile nationwide.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 35 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 18th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 12.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 18.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 30.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 50.5% | 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 | 34 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 4.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 13.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 18.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 11.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 12.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 14.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 12.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 7.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 3.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 1.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Prestons at 35 years as at August 2026. That is up from the 2021 Census figure of 34 years, with AreaSearch updating the age profile for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 35 years as at August 2026, Prestons is 2 years younger than the Greater Sydney 2021 Census average (37 years) and 3 years younger than the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Prestons compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 15 - 24 group, making up 18.4% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Prestons compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 11.7% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Prestons show significant variance compared to Greater Sydney. The most over-represented age group is 15-24 year-olds (18.4% vs 13.2%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 18.4% of the population in the suburb of Prestons as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 12.5% of the population in the suburb of Prestons as at August 2026.
Income analysis reveals strong economic positioning, with the area outperforming 60% of locations assessed nationally by AreaSearch.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median taxable income (ATO) | $55,214 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 33rd percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $63,843 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $2,310 | 2021 Census, weekly | 83rd percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $757 | 2021 Census, weekly | 40th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 32.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,291 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 13.1% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Prestons is approximately $58,737. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $55,214.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Prestons is approximately $67,916. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $63,843.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Prestons is approximately $58,737 compared to $67,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $55,214 and $63,183 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Prestons is approximately $67,916 compared to $92,214 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $63,843 and $86,684 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Prestons's households (~37.4% / 1,549 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Prestons is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 37.4% 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 Prestons is $2,310/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Prestons is $2,291/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Prestons is $757/wk.
The suburb of Prestons's income level is lower than average on a national basis according to the latest ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. The suburb of Prestons's median income among taxpayers is $55,214 and the average income stands at $63,843, which compares to figures for Greater Sydney's of $63,183 and $86,684 respectively. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.38% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $58,737 (median) and $67,916 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Prestons is $8,335 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Prestons's disposable income is $8,335 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.
Prestons ranks among the top 23% of areas assessed nationally for overall employment performance.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 2.7% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 75.2% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 9,248 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 16,646 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 9,503 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Prestons has approximately 9,248 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 2.7%. This very low unemployment rate indicates a tight labour market with strong demand for workers. The area ranks in the top 25% nationally for employment performance, indicating a robust job market.
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Prestons stands at 2.7%, which is 1.4 percentage points below Greater Sydney's rate of 4.1%. This lower unemployment rate suggests stronger local employment conditions. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
The employment landscape in the suburb of Prestons is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (14.2% of employment), retail trade (10.5%), and transport, postal & warehousing (10.1%). The relatively diverse employment base, with the top three sectors comprising 34.8% of jobs, provides economic resilience. Other significant employers include education & training and manufacturing.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Prestons has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Greater Sydney saw employment increased and its unemployment rate dropped.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Prestons is 75.2%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This high participation rate indicates strong workforce engagement and economic vitality. The local rate leading the Greater Sydney average of 68.9%, indicating stronger workforce attachment in the local area.
The suburb of Prestons shows notable specialisation in transport, postal & warehousing, which employs 10.1% of the local workforce compared to 5.3% 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 Prestons's employment market shows strong performance nationally, ranking in the top 25% of areas assessed by AreaSearch. This indicates robust employment conditions and economic vitality compared to other regions. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 3.8% decline, ranking 32nd out of 37 regions nationally.
The educational profile of Prestons ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 18.1% | 2021 Census | 54th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 5.4% | 2021 Census | 53rd percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 24.8% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 18.9% | 2021 Census | 32nd percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 1.3% | 2021 Census | 12th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 11.7% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 44.6% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 36.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 7.2% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 11.8% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 11.7% | 2021 Census | 97th percentile nationally |
24.8% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Prestons have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in Greater Sydney.
44.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Prestons have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% in Greater Sydney.
The suburb of Prestons ranks in the 63th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Prestons are: Certificate (18.9%), Bachelor Degree (18.1%), Advanced Diploma (11.7%).
36.5% of the population in the suburb of Prestons is currently engaged in formal education, including 11.8% in primary school, 11.7% in secondary school, 7.2% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Prestons is 1051, indicating average socio-educational advantage (national average is 1000).
There are 5 schools within the suburb of Prestons, with a combined enrollment of approximately 5,700 students.
The suburb of Prestons includes 3 primary schools, 2 combined schools.
Prestons features high concentrations of couples with children and family households but relatively few lone person households, with a larger average household size than Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 3.6 people | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 8.8% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 59.8% | 2021 Census | 99th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 15.5% | 2021 Census | 2nd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 13.9% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 1.2% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 4,142 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 4,103 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 90.1% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.7 per family | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Prestons had 4,142 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has remained relatively stable to an estimated 4,103 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Prestons is 3.6 people. This compares to 2.7 in Greater Sydney and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 90.1% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (8.8%), group households (1.2%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 3,732 family households, couples with children account for 59.8% of all households, couples without children at home 15.5%, and single parent families 13.9%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Sydney, the suburb of Prestons shows distinct household patterns. Family households are notably over-represented at 90.1% (versus 72.6% in Greater Sydney). Conversely, lone person households are under-represented at 8.8% compared to 23.2% in Greater Sydney. This family-oriented profile influences local demand for family homes, schools, and children's services.
Families in the suburb of Prestons have an average of 1.7 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 52.9% of the adult population are currently married, while 34.4% have never married. This compares to 48.3% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Sydney.
Single-person households represent 8.8% of all households in the suburb of Prestons, notably lower 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 1.2% of households, below the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This lower rate suggests less student or young professional shared accommodation.
Prestons is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 44.8% | 2021 Census | 86th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 58.5% | 2021 Census | 92nd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 41.5% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 88.2% | 2021 Census | 61st percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 55.2% | 2021 Census | 13th percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 1.3% | 2021 Census | 48th percentile nationally |
Prestons scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 44.8% of its population born overseas and 58.5% speaking a language other than English at home.
The main religion in Prestons was found to be Christianity, which makes up 49.0% of people in Prestons. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Islam, which comprises 23.1% of the population, substantially higher than the Greater Sydney average of 6.8%.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Prestons are Other, comprising 31.5% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Sydney's 16.0%, Australian, comprising 12.2% of the population, which is notably lower than Greater Sydney's 17.8%, and English, comprising 8.9% of the population, which is notably lower than Greater Sydney's 19.0%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Serbian is notably overrepresented at 1.9% of Prestons (vs 0.5% across Greater Sydney), Spanish at 1.2% (vs 0.6%) and Lebanese at 5.4% (vs 2.6%).
44.8% of the suburb of Prestons population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% across Greater Sydney.
58.5% of the population in the suburb of Prestons speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in Greater Sydney.
1.3% of the suburb of Prestons population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in Greater Sydney.
88.2% of the suburb of Prestons population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in Greater Sydney.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Prestons is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with ownership patterns similar to Greater Sydney.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 18.7% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 24.3% | 2021 Census | 23rd percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 92.5% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,200 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 81st percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 57.0% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 6.9% | 2021 Census | 43rd percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $520 | 2021 Census, weekly | 92nd percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 22.5% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 67th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 22.0% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 31st percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.9 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Prestons, 24.3% of homes are owned outright, 57.0% are owned with a mortgage, and 18.7% are rented.
According to the latest data, 92.5% of dwellings in the suburb of Prestons are houses.
In the suburb of Prestons, 0.5% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 6.9% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Prestons stands at 24.3%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Prestons is $2,200, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Prestons is $1,675, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Prestons, households with mortgages typically spend 22.0% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 22.5% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Prestons is 0.9, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Prestons shows mortgage holders spending 22.0% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% in Greater Sydney), while renters spend 22.5% of income on rent (vs 22.6% in Greater Sydney).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Prestons consists of 92.5% detached houses, 6.9% semi-detached dwellings, 0.5% apartments, and 0.1% other dwelling types.
Housing in Prestons consumes approximately 16.7% of median household income ($10,002 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Prestons show attached dwellings contributing 2% of approvals compared to 8% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 98% of applications versus 92% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Health in Prestons: private health cover 50.4%, no long-term health condition 78.0%.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 50.4% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 30th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 78.0% | 2021 Census | 89th percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 5.3% | 2021 Census | 49th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 82.5% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.9% | 2021 Census | 30th percentile nationally |
Around 50.4% of people in the suburb of Prestons are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.8% in Greater Sydney.
In the suburb of Prestons, 5.3% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
5.7% of people in the suburb of Prestons are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.4% of the population across Greater Sydney is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 5.9% of the suburb of Prestons population, while in Greater Sydney, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
2.6% of people in the suburb of Prestons have heart disease. Across Greater Sydney,3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Prestons, 50.4% 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 good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Transport access | 71 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 71st percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 95 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 71st percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 3,551 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 66th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 164 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Public transport routes | 67 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicles per dwelling | 2.0 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 35.0% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 95 public transport stops within the suburb of Prestons.
The suburb of Prestons has 3,551 weekly trips across 67 routes, averaging 507 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 152 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 284 m away and the nearest school 524 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 95 stops nearby, 3,551 weekly trips, access rating 71 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 42 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 42nd percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 284 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 524 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 568 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 682 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest pharmacy | 882 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 997 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest dentist | 1.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 1.1 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 2.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 5.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 6.6 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 11 long day care centres with 488 places in Prestons, about 1.6 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 Prestons 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 Prestons.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
AreaSearch's development drivers ranking sees a low level of activity in Prestons, placing the area among the bottom 21% of areas assessed nationally.
Prestons ranks in the 82nd percentile nationally for infrastructure.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Prestons's tightly held property market has recorded 124 sales in the 12 months to September 2026, comprising 89% residential, 9% commercial and 2% vacant land transactions.
An assessment of population growth drivers in Prestons reveals an overall ranking slightly below national averages considering recent, and medium term trends.
Prestons hosts a young demographic, positioning it in the bottom quartile nationwide.
Income analysis reveals strong economic positioning, with the area outperforming 60% of locations assessed nationally by AreaSearch.
Prestons ranks among the top 23% of areas assessed nationally for overall employment performance.
The educational profile of Prestons ranks above average relative to locations nationally, based on AreaSearch's ranking of qualification and academic performance metrics.
Prestons features high concentrations of couples with children and family households but relatively few lone person households, with a larger average household size than Greater Sydney.
Prestons is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country based on AreaSearch assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Prestons is characterized by a predominantly suburban housing profile, with ownership patterns similar to Greater Sydney.
Health in Prestons: private health cover 50.4%, no long-term health condition 78.0%.
Transport servicing is good compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be below the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Prestons has an estimated 15,546 residents, down 0.9% since the 2021 Census, with 51 projects tracked in the area around Prestons.
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 Prestons.
Data currency
Refreshed . Sales to Oct 2026, rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Jun 2026. Housing 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 (SAL13272). QuickStats reports 2021 only; the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.
This page uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries (suburb-style geography). SAL represents commonly-known suburb names used in addresses, while Statistical Areas (SA2) are designed for census and statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources, including ABS, Geoscience Australia, GNAF, ATO, State governments, Valuer General, Rental Board and Infrastructure Australia, then calculates statistics for the boundary shown, and ranks, growth rates and benchmarks itself. Property sales come from the state valuation authority, rents from state rental bond lodgements, development applications from council and state planning portals, school data from ACARA, and public transport from state transport departments. Infrastructure projects and development applications also include sites in the surrounding area, labelled as such.
No. Most of this page is built beyond the Census. Dated for this area: population (Aug 2026), age profile (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Jun 2026) and income (FY 2024). Compiled with this profile from sources that publish on their own cycles: development and approvals, property sales and rents, employment, households, education, transport, health and services and amenities. Only housing and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.
Key demographics and figures for Prestons 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 Prestons 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.
