Suburb profile · Greater Hobart
Sandy Bay has an estimated 12,568 residents, up 2.1% since the 2021 Census, with 7 projects tracked in Sandy Bay.
Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Order a reportDraw your own catchment
You are viewing the free Snapshot. Dashboard puts rankings, rents, projects and services on one screen, and Full adds every chapter with charts and maps. Dashboard and Full are included with AreaSearch Operator and Pro, or unlocked by the area's Area Expert. You need to log in to open them.
The suburb of Sandy Bay lies 2.9 kilometres south-southeast of the Hobart CBD in Tasmania. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is estimated at around 12,568 as of Aug 2026. That figure is derived from aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, together with national address file data updated each quarter. Compared with the 12,315 people reported at the 2021 Census, the change has been minimal. The area's profile is shaped by a well-educated local population, standout school performance levels, and a notable education employment base.
Residents show a fairly standard age profile, with a median age of 39, and households are comprised largely of group households and couples without children. The area is very well educated, and in terms of population growth it shows moderate expansion patterns. The picturesque seaside setting is renowned for its beautiful beaches, idyllic natural surroundings, and vibrant lifestyle.
Free with an AreaSearch account. Pro is not needed.Free. Built in your browser.
01Profile
The analysis, national rankings and who lives there.
The suburb of Sandy Bay lies 2.9 kilometres south-southeast of the Hobart CBD in Tasmania. Based on AreaSearch's analysis, its population is estimated at around 12,568 as of Aug 2026. That figure is derived from aggregated SA2-level ERP counts, released yearly, together with national address file data updated each quarter. Compared with the 12,315 people reported at the 2021 Census, the change has been minimal. The area's profile is shaped by a well-educated local population, standout school performance levels, and a notable education employment base.
Residents show a fairly standard age profile, with a median age of 39, and households are comprised largely of group households and couples without children. The area is very well educated, and in terms of population growth it shows moderate expansion patterns. The picturesque seaside setting is renowned for its beautiful beaches, idyllic natural surroundings, and vibrant lifestyle.
Estimated resident population by year (ABS, not Census counts): 11,170 in 2006 and 12,540 in 2025. The dashed segment ends at the AreaSearch estimate for Aug 2026: 12,568 (ABS June 2025 base).
Share of residents in each age band (ABS age profile, scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate). Largest: 25 to 34, 19.2%.
Share of households in each weekly household income band (2021 Census). Largest: $1,500 - 2,999, 29.8%.
Sandy Bay ranks in the 92nd percentile nationally for employment drivers and the 88th for education.
Each bar and spoke is a national percentile; the dashed ring is the typical area. 99th = higher than 99 in every 100 neighbourhood-sized areas across Australia (ABS SA2 areas). Higher means more of the measure, not necessarily better. Orange marks the top three measures where a higher percentile is better; not Age, Housing or Housing Cost.
02Market and pipeline
Rents, sale prices and what is being built.
The median rent in Sandy Bay is $545 a week, up 10.9% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Some rents are estimated from nearby areas.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median rent | $545 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent over 12 months | +10.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Hobart Inner | $543 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Hobart Inner, over 12 months | +9.3% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Hobart | $551 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Change in median rent, Hobart, over 12 months | +7.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, Greater Hobart | $551 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, Greater Hobart, over 12 months | +7.9% | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Median rent, TAS | $513 a week | Rental bond lodgements, median for the 12 months to Jun 2026 | |
| Change in median rent, TAS, over 12 months | +9.5% | 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 15 tracked applications: 0 approved, 15 under assessment, 0 other (refused, withdrawn or no status).
Add retailers, health, schools and development applications around Sandy Bay, then export the list.
The map builder can plot
AreaSearch tracks 7 projects in Sandy Bay (1 under construction) and 41 more in the surrounding area.
Redevelopment of the former ABC studio and Tasmanian Conservatorium of Music site into 75 serviced apartments with ground-floor dining. Led by Fragrance Group, the scheme incorporates adaptive reuse while conserving the heritage-listed external mosaic mural by artist George Davis.
New passenger ferry terminal at Lords Beach in Sandy Bay to expand the River Derwent ferry network. Facilities currently proposed include a kiosk, toilets, bicycle storage and e-mobility charging, with improved pedestrian and cycling links.
The University of Tasmania is redeveloping its Sandy Bay campus as a science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) precinct, to be delivered in stages through retrofits of existing buildings, new facilities and landscape enhancement.
A $3.8 million redevelopment of Queenborough Oval in Sandy Bay to modernise facilities for the more than 400 players from South Hobart Sandy Bay Cricket Club, Hutchins Old Boys Football Club and Sandy Bay Junior Football Club.
Original 2020 development application PLN-20-740 proposed 20 multiple dwellings at 21B Enterprise Road. Council refused the application on 10 May 2021 after 213 representations, and the subsequent appeal was withdrawn.
Boutique development of 10 house-sized apartments by Earl Properties in partnership with Carta Group. Designed by Cumulus Studio with modernist architecture principles maintaining connection to natural surroundings.
Major Hobart City Deal transport project delivering a northbound T3 transit lane between Olinda Grove and Macquarie Street to improve travel times for buses, emergency services and high-occupancy vehicles. The project complements the Huntingfield and Firthside Park and Ride facilities, Transit Lane Connector and Macquarie and Davey Street bus improvements.
Adaptive reuse and expansion of the historic 1930s Hobart Masonic Hall. The project involves a seven-storey addition above the existing Stripped Classical style building to create a 51-room hotel. The design preserves the heritage facade and internal halls while adding five levels of accommodation and a rooftop bar.
TasPorts is delivering a staged redevelopment of Hobart's Macquarie Wharves to modernise critical port infrastructure supporting Antarctic research, cruise, trade and logistics.
Expansion and modernisation of the Royal Hobart Hospital emergency department at 48 Liverpool Street, Hobart, as part of the wider Stage 2 redevelopment. The $130 million works increase treatment points from 81 to 120, add CT and X-ray capacity, and create paediatric and mental health waiting areas. Phase 1 was completed in 2023.
50th anniversary redevelopment including new casino (opened December 2021), Tower One restaurant refurbishment, and conference facilities upgrade by Australia's oldest continually operating hotel group.
Lumina is a purpose-built, column-free function centre being added to The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel by Marriott, within the Parliament Square precinct in Hobart. Designed by fjcstudio and constructed by SHAPE Tasmania for JGS Property, the venue features a clear-span event space finished in mass-engineered Tasmanian Plantation Oak timber.
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 25 projects in and around the area that are not yet completed and have one: 2021 1, 2022 0, 2023 0, 2024 0, 2025 8, 2026 4, 2027 5, 2028 4, 2029 1, 2030 2. 14 have no completion year.
AreaSearch has tracked 15 substantial development applications lodged in and around Sandy Bay over the period covered (about 0.6 years), 15 in the last 12 months; 15 are recorded as under assessment. Coverage varies by council.
Applications per year (dashed: part year): 2026 (part year) 15.
Key application 4 Red Chapel Av Sandy Bay Multi-Resi | $300k | 3 dwellings | 1 storey Under Assessment
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracked applications | 15 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 0.6 years) | |
| Tracked, last 12 months | 15 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area | |
| ABS building approvals | 1.4 per 1,000 people | ABS building approvals | 16th percentile nationally |
| Average approvals a year | 17 | ABS building approvals | 30th percentile nationally |
| Applications under assessment | 15 | Tracked by AreaSearch, in and around the area, period covered (about 0.6 years) |
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Sandy Bay include: Sandy Bay Ferry Terminal (Planning); University of Tasmania Sandy Bay Campus Redevelopment (Planning); Queenborough Oval Redevelopment (Construction); 21 Enterprise Road Apartments (Planning); and Grace Residences (Approved). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Sandy Bay spans multiple sectors including Residential Development, Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, and Transport & Logistics, among others.
Infrastructure development activity impacting the suburb of Sandy Bay currently ranks below national averages at the 35th percentile.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Sandy Bay is very low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Dwelling approval activity in the suburb of Sandy Bay area has seen 53 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Sandy Bay's current population of 12,568 has been supported by 17 approvals on average over recent years.
The suburb of Sandy Bay has seen 1.4 approvals per 1,000 people in recent years, compared to 4.7 approvals in Greater Hobart. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 473 people in the suburb of Sandy Bay, compared to one for every 255 in Greater Hobart.
The long-run outlook for development is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Sandy Bay's approval levels have been slightly above the yearly average of 17, showing modest growth in recent years.
Over the past five years, the suburb of Sandy Bay has seen 85 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.
Sandy Bay has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population | 12,568 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | |
| Growth since 2021 Census | +2.1% | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | 18th percentile nationally |
| Population density | 1,814 per km² | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, from the ABS June 2025 base | 67th percentile nationally |
| Average yearly growth, 2020 to 2025 | -0.5% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Average yearly growth, 2015 to 2025 | +0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population at the 2021 Census | 12,315 | 2021 Census | |
| Residents added since the 2021 Census | 253 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026, against the 2021 Census | |
| Average yearly growth, 2022 to 2025 | -0.3% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Population growth, 2024 to 2025 | -0.2% | ABS estimated resident population series to June 2025 | |
| Land area | 6.93 km² | AreaSearch boundary analysis |
Total population for the suburb of Sandy Bay was estimated to be approximately 12,568 as at Aug 2026. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 12,540 from the ABS up to June 2025.
The suburb of Sandy Bay has added approximately 253 people and shown a 2.05% increase from the 12,315 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
The population density in the suburb of Sandy Bay is estimated at 1,814 persons per square kilometre based on the latest population estimate.
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Sandy Bay has shown a compound annual growth rate of 0.3% per annum.
Population growth in the suburb of Sandy Bay is driven by: Overseas migration (100.0%), Natural increase (0.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 100.0% of overall population gains.
Sandy Bay's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median age | 39 years | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | 49th percentile nationally |
| Aged 65 and over | 23.0% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Children under 15 | 11.7% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 34 | 33.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 64 | 51.4% | 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 | 39 years | 2021 Census | |
| Aged 0 to 4 | 3.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 5 to 14 | 8.5% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 15 to 24 | 14.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 25 to 34 | 19.2% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 35 to 44 | 11.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 45 to 54 | 9.9% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 55 to 64 | 10.4% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 65 to 74 | 10.6% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 75 to 84 | 9.1% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate | |
| Aged 85 and over | 3.3% | ABS estimated resident population age profile (June 2025), scaled to the Aug 2026 AreaSearch estimate |
AreaSearch estimates the median age in the suburb of Sandy Bay at 39 years as at August 2026. That is in line with the 2021 Census figure of 39 years, on an age profile AreaSearch re-estimates for population change recorded since the Census.
At an estimated 39 years as at August 2026, Sandy Bay is equal to the Greater Hobart 2021 Census average and similarly aligned with comparable to the national Census average (38 years).
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most over-represented age group in the suburb of Sandy Bay compared to the Greater Hobart region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 19.2% of the population.
On AreaSearch estimates updated to August 2026, the most under-represented age group in the suburb of Sandy Bay compared to the Greater Hobart region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 8.5% of the population.
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Sandy Bay show significant variance compared to Greater Hobart. The most under-represented age group is 0-4 year-olds (3.2% vs 5.1%).
AreaSearch estimates children aged 0-14 years at 11.7% of the population in the suburb of Sandy Bay as at August 2026.
AreaSearch estimates people aged 65 and over at 23.0% of the population in the suburb of Sandy Bay 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) | $55,656 a year | ATO FY-24, annual | 35th percentile nationally |
| Average taxable income | $90,154 a year | ATO FY-24, annual |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Census household income / week | $1,915 | 2021 Census, weekly | 60th percentile nationally |
| Census personal income / week | $887 | 2021 Census, weekly | 65th percentile nationally |
| High-income households | 29.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Census family income / week | $2,415 | 2021 Census, weekly | |
| Low-income households | 19.6% | 2021 Census |
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Sandy Bay is approximately $59,057. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded a median of $55,656.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Sandy Bay is approximately $95,662. The official ATO data from FY-24 recorded an average of $90,154.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Sandy Bay is approximately $59,057 compared to $61,347 in Greater Hobart. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $55,656 and $57,815 respectively.
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to June 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Sandy Bay is approximately $95,662 compared to $73,587 in Greater Hobart. The official ATO data from FY-24 shows $90,154 and $69,350 respectively.
As per the 2021 Census, the weekly household income bracket containing the largest proportion of the suburb of Sandy Bay's households (~29.8% / 1,413 households) is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
The largest weekly household income cohort in the suburb of Sandy Bay is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.8% of households. In comparison, Greater Hobart's largest household income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 32.2% of its households, according to the 2021 Census.
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Sandy Bay is $1,915/wk.
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Sandy Bay is $2,415/wk.
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Sandy Bay is $887/wk.
The suburb of Sandy Bay shows a median taxpayer income of $55,656 and an average of $90,154 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-24. This is extremely high nationally, contrasting with Greater Hobart's median income of $57,815 and average income of $69,350. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 6.11% since FY-24, current estimates would be approximately $59,057 (median) and $95,662 (average) as of June 2026.
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Sandy Bay is $7,182 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
The suburb of Sandy Bay's disposable income is $7,182 compared to $5,694 for Greater Hobart, based on AreaSearch analysis.
The exceptional employment performance in Sandy Bay places it among Australia's strongest labour markets.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unemployment rate | 1.3% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Workforce participation | 64.0% | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Employed residents | 6,997 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch | |
| Daytime population | 11,854 | AreaSearch estimate of residents and workers present on a weekday | |
| Labour force | 7,091 | ABS and DEWR labour data, compiled by AreaSearch |
As of March 2026, the suburb of Sandy Bay has approximately 6,997 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 1.3%. 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 Sandy Bay stands at 1.3%, which is 3.1 percentage points below Greater Hobart's rate of 4.4%. 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 Sandy Bay is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are health care & social assistance (17.0% of employment), education & training (13.9%), and accommodation & food (12.7%). Other significant employers include professional & technical and retail trade.
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Sandy Bay has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fallen. By comparison, Greater Hobart saw employment decreased and its unemployment rate rose.
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Sandy Bay is 64.0%, which represents the proportion of working-age residents who are either employed or actively seeking work. This healthy participation rate reflects good employment opportunities and workforce engagement. The local rate leading the Greater Hobart average of 63.7%, showing similar workforce dynamics to Greater Hobart.
The suburb of Sandy Bay shows notable specialisation in accommodation & food, which employs 12.7% of the local workforce compared to 8.0% across Greater Hobart. This concentration suggests the area has developed competitive advantages in this sector. The area also shows above-average employment in 2 other sectors, contributing to a distinctive economic profile.
The long-run outlook for employment is part of AreaSearch Operator and Pro. Log in to see the forecast detail in Full.
The suburb of Sandy Bay'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 6.4% decline, ranking 34th out of 37 regions nationally.
Sandy Bay shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor qualifications | 31.9% | 2021 Census | 90th percentile nationally |
| Postgraduate qualifications | 22.2% | 2021 Census | 98th percentile nationally |
| University qualifications | 58.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Vocational qualifications | 8.4% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Graduate diploma or certificate | 4.4% | 2021 Census | 88th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Advanced diploma or diploma | 9.2% | 2021 Census | 21st percentile nationally |
| No post-school qualification | 23.9% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending an educational institution | 32.5% | 2021 Census | |
| Residents attending university or other higher education | 12.4% | 2021 Census | 95th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending primary school | 6.9% | 2021 Census | 10th percentile nationally |
| Residents attending secondary school | 6.4% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
58.5% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Sandy Bay have university qualifications, compared to 32.8% in Greater Hobart.
23.9% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Sandy Bay have no formal qualifications, compared to 36.2% in Greater Hobart.
The suburb of Sandy Bay ranks in the 88th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Sandy Bay are: Bachelor Degree (31.9%), Postgraduate (22.2%), Advanced Diploma (9.2%).
32.5% of the population in the suburb of Sandy Bay is currently engaged in formal education, including 6.9% in primary school, 6.4% in secondary school, 12.4% at university (all shares of total residents).
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Sandy Bay is 1128, indicating above-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
There are 6 schools within the suburb of Sandy Bay, with a combined enrollment of approximately 2,775 students.
The suburb of Sandy Bay includes 3 primary schools, 3 combined schools.
Sandy Bay features high concentrations of group households and couples without children but relatively few single parent families, with an average household size in line with Greater Hobart.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median household size | 2.4 people | 2021 Census | 41st percentile nationally |
| Lone-person households | 28.1% | 2021 Census | 63rd percentile nationally |
| Couples with children | 23.4% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Couples without children | 32.6% | 2021 Census | 82nd percentile nationally |
| One-parent families | 5.9% | 2021 Census | 5th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Group households | 8.8% | 2021 Census | 94th percentile nationally |
| Households at the 2021 Census | 4,735 | 2021 Census | |
| Estimated households | 4,832 | AreaSearch estimate, Aug 2026 | |
| Family households | 63.0% | 2021 Census | 19th percentile nationally |
| Average children per family | 1.3 per family | 2021 Census | 17th percentile nationally |
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Sandy Bay had 4,735 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 2.0% to an estimated 4,832 households today.
The average household size in the suburb of Sandy Bay is 2.4 people. This compares to 2.4 in Greater Hobart and reflects the area's household composition mix.
Family households dominate at 63.0% of all households. Non-family households consist of lone person households (28.1%), group households (8.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
Of the 2,983 family households, couples with children account for 23.4% of all households, couples without children at home 32.6%, and single parent families 5.9%. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
Compared to Greater Hobart, the suburb of Sandy Bay shows distinct household patterns. Conversely, family households are under-represented at 63.0% compared to 68.1% in Greater Hobart. The prevalence of shared households suggests a younger demographic or affordability considerations.
Families in the suburb of Sandy Bay have an average of 1.3 children, slightly below the Greater Hobart average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
Marriage patterns reveal 46.5% of the adult population are currently married, while 38.2% have never married. This compares to 43.0% married and 38.7% never married across Greater Hobart.
Single-person households represent 28.1% of all households in the suburb of Sandy Bay, similar to the average for Greater Hobart of 27.7%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 8.8% of households, above the Greater Hobart average of 4.2%. This higher rate points to more student or young professional shared accommodation.
Sandy Bay was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets in Australia, upon assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Born overseas | 37.4% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Speak another language at home | 28.4% | 2021 Census | 73rd percentile nationally |
| English only at home | 71.6% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
| Australian citizens | 73.6% | 2021 Census | 11th percentile nationally |
| Born in Australia | 62.6% | 2021 Census | 22nd percentile nationally |
| Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander residents | 0.6% | 2021 Census | 26th percentile nationally |
Sandy Bay scores quite highly on cultural diversity, with 28.4% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 37.4% born overseas.
Christianity is the most commonly reported religion in Sandy Bay, at 37.4% of people, although more residents (53.0%) reported no religion. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 0.3% of the population, compared to 0.1% across Greater Hobart.
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Sandy Bay are English, comprising 27.7% of the population, Australian, comprising 20.5% of the population, which is notably lower than Greater Hobart's 28.0%, and Chinese, comprising 11.0% of the population, which is substantially higher than Greater Hobart's 2.7%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Korean is notably overrepresented at 0.6% of Sandy Bay (vs 0.2% across Greater Hobart), Polish at 0.8% (vs 0.8%) and Welsh at 0.6% (vs 0.5%).
37.4% of the suburb of Sandy Bay population was born overseas, compared to 19.8% across Greater Hobart.
28.4% of the population in the suburb of Sandy Bay speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 13.4% in Greater Hobart.
0.6% of the suburb of Sandy Bay population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 3.0% in Greater Hobart.
73.6% of the suburb of Sandy Bay population holds citizenship, compared to 85.0% in Greater Hobart.
04Place
Housing, health, transport, local services and the reports on them.
Sandy Bay displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rented homes | 35.3% | 2021 Census | 69th percentile nationally |
| Owned outright | 42.8% | 2021 Census | 77th percentile nationally |
| Detached houses | 68.7% | 2021 Census | 25th percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment | $2,167 a month | 2021 Census, monthly | 79th percentile nationally |
| Owned with a mortgage | 22.0% | 2021 Census | 8th percentile nationally |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semi-detached, terrace and townhouses | 13.3% | 2021 Census | 68th percentile nationally |
| Median weekly rent paid, 2021 Census | $418 | 2021 Census, weekly | 70th percentile nationally |
| Median rent as a share of median household income | 21.8% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 61st percentile nationally |
| Median mortgage repayment as a share of household income | 26.1% | 2021 Census, ratio calculated by AreaSearch | 68th percentile nationally |
| People per bedroom | 0.8 per bedroom | 2021 Census | 72nd percentile nationally |
In the suburb of Sandy Bay, 42.8% of homes are owned outright, 22.0% are owned with a mortgage, and 35.3% are rented.
According to the latest data, 68.7% of dwellings in the suburb of Sandy Bay are houses.
In the suburb of Sandy Bay, 17.1% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 13.3% being semi-detached dwellings.
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Sandy Bay stands at 42.8%, compared to 35.0% in Greater Hobart.
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Sandy Bay is $2,167, compared to $1,517 in Greater Hobart.
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Sandy Bay is $1,116, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
In the suburb of Sandy Bay, households with mortgages typically spend 26.1% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 21.8% of their income on rent.
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Sandy Bay is 0.8, indicating the level of household density.
Housing affordability in the suburb of Sandy Bay shows mortgage holders spending 26.1% of income on repayments (vs 22.7% in Greater Hobart), while renters spend 21.8% of income on rent (vs 22.7% in Greater Hobart).
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Sandy Bay consists of 68.7% detached houses, 13.3% semi-detached dwellings, 17.1% apartments, and 0.9% other dwelling types.
Housing in Sandy Bay consumes approximately 13.5% of median household income ($8,292 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
Recent development applications in Sandy Bay show attached dwellings contributing 0% of approvals compared to 31% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 100% of applications versus 69% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Density increases remain below national trends.
Sandy Bay's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private health cover | 61.2% | ATO FY 2024, private health cover | 81st percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition | 73.0% | 2021 Census | 71st percentile nationally |
| Need help with daily activities | 4.5% | 2021 Census | 34th percentile nationally |
| No long-term health condition, under 65 | 82.4% | 2021 Census | 87th percentile nationally |
| Three or more long-term health conditions, under 65 | 0.5% | 2021 Census | 7th percentile nationally |
Around 61.2% of people in the suburb of Sandy Bay are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 52.2% in Greater Hobart.
In the suburb of Sandy Bay, 4.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. By comparison, 6.2% of people in Greater Hobart require similar assistance.
5.6% of people in the suburb of Sandy Bay are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 7.7% of the population across Greater Hobart is affected by asthma.
Diabetes affects 2.7% of the suburb of Sandy Bay population, while in Greater Hobart, 4.0% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
3.6% of people in the suburb of Sandy Bay have heart disease. Across Greater Hobart,3.6% of the population is affected by heart disease.
In the suburb of Sandy Bay, 61.2% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Hobart sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 52.2%.
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 | 82 out of 100 | AreaSearch transport analysis of timetable data | 82nd percentile nationally |
| Public transport stops | 68 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 55th percentile nationally |
| Weekly public transport trips | 6,047 | Public transport timetable (GTFS) data, compiled by AreaSearch | 84th percentile nationally |
| People per public transport stop | 185 | 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 | 1.2 per dwelling | 2021 Census | |
| Working residents who worked from home | 13.5% | 2021 Census, taken during COVID-19 restrictions |
There are 68 public transport stops within the suburb of Sandy Bay.
The suburb of Sandy Bay has 6,047 weekly trips across 67 routes, averaging 863 trips per day.
On average, residential properties are 169 metres from the nearest transport stop.
From the typical resident, the nearest child care centre is 410 m away and the nearest school 439 m.
Distance from the typical resident to the nearest of each service. Every bar starts at 0 m. The nearest is orange.
Public transport 68 stops nearby, 6,047 weekly trips, access rating 82 out of 100.
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amenity score | 50 out of 100 | AreaSearch proximity analysis | 50th percentile nationally |
| Nearest child care | 410 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest school | 439 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest GP | 666 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest pharmacy | 790 m | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
| Measure | Value | Source and date | National percentile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nearest dentist | 1.5 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest supermarket | 1.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest fitness centre | 1.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest bank | 1.9 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest government service | 2.8 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest shopping centre | 3.0 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident | |
| Nearest hospital | 3.3 km | AreaSearch proximity analysis, from the typical resident |
Sector reports that go deeper on these services: child care, medical, retail, aged care and specialist disability accommodation (SDA). There are 8 long day care centres with 538 places in Sandy Bay, about 0.8 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 Sandy Bay is built to order and emailed to you.
Ordered reports
The other sector reports are ordered on a custom catchment: draw your own area to add them. The order window shows the estimate before you place the order.
Order a reportShort silent previews of sample pages. Base and Child Care can be ordered for Sandy Bay.
06About this profile
Where the figures come from, downloads and nearby areas.
On AreaSearch's development drivers ranking, residential development activity in Sandy Bay is very low in comparison to the average area assessed nationally.
Sandy Bay has emerging levels of nearby infrastructure activity, ranking in the 35th percentile nationally.
No headline figures are reported for this area.
Median rent in Sandy Bay is $545 a week, +10.9% over 12 months to Jun 2026.
Sandy Bay has seen population growth performance typically on par with national averages when looking at short and medium term trends.
Sandy Bay's population aligns closely with national norms in age terms.
Income levels align closely with national averages, indicating typical economic conditions for Australian communities according to AreaSearch analysis.
The exceptional employment performance in Sandy Bay places it among Australia's strongest labour markets.
Sandy Bay shows strong educational performance, ranking in the upper quartile nationally when assessed across multiple qualification and achievement indicators.
Sandy Bay features high concentrations of group households and couples without children but relatively few single parent families, with an average household size in line with Greater Hobart.
Sandy Bay was found to be more culturally diverse than the vast majority of local markets in Australia, upon assessment of a range of language and cultural background related metrics.
Sandy Bay displays a diverse mix of dwelling types, with above-average rates of outright home ownership.
Sandy Bay's residents boast exceedingly positive health performance metrics relative to locations nationally with very low prevalence of common health conditions across all age groups.
Transport servicing is high compared to other areas nationally based on assessment of service frequency, route connectivity and accessibility.
Amenity provision was found to be in line with the typical area assessed nationally by AreaSearch, based on counts and proximity analysis.
Sandy Bay has an estimated 12,568 residents, up 2.1% since the 2021 Census, with 7 projects tracked in Sandy Bay.
Latest estimate as at Aug 2026; other figures from the 2021 Census, ATO FY-24 and AreaSearch estimates where labelled. Updated 14 Oct 2026.
Sources: ABS Census 2021, ABS estimated resident population, ATO taxation statistics, state rental bonds and property sales records where published, and AreaSearch analysis for Sandy Bay.
Data currency
Refreshed . Rents to Jun 2026, population and age estimated to Aug 2026, taxable income FY 2024 and projects to Oct 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 (SAL60585). 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 (Oct 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 Sandy Bay from the 2021 Census, ATO taxpayer data and AreaSearch estimates and analysis. Each topic has its own table of key figures beside the section it belongs to, and each row names its source and date. The percentile compares Sandy Bay with every neighbourhood-sized area across Australia (ABS SA2 areas): a higher percentile means more of that measure than most, not necessarily better.
Source: AreaSearch (areasearch.com.au) compiled from ABS Census 2021, ATO and other public sources.
