Waterloo (NSW)

Suburb (SAL)

Greater Sydney / Sydney Inner City

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Data Sources ABSValuer GeneralRental BoardACARA Newest Aug 2026 · Refreshed ABS QuickStats SAL14201 How we calculate this
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Suburb (SAL) Boundary Analysis

This analysis uses Suburbs and Localities (SAL) boundaries, which can materially differ from Statistical Areas (SA2) even when sharing the same name.

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 comprehensive analysis, consider reviewing both boundary types if available.

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Sales ActivityProperty Sales Trends in Waterloo (NSW)

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The median house price in Waterloo (NSW) is $1.69m, with units at $940k. House values have moved 5.6% a year compounded over five years.

Curious about local property values? Filter the chart to assess the volume and appreciation (including resales) trends and regional comparisons, or scroll to the map below view this information at an individual property level.

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DemographicsPopulation Growth in Waterloo (NSW)

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Waterloo (NSW) has an estimated 18,757 residents, up from 16,379 at the 2021 Census — a change of 2,378 people, or 14.5%. Growth has averaged 2.0% a year over five years, faster than 83% of areas nationally. 149 new addresses have been validated here since Census night. Overseas migration accounts for 91.0% of that increase. That puts 16,599 residents on each square kilometre. Population is estimated from ABS Estimated Resident Population releases and GNAF address data, re-based from the 2021 Census and updated annually.

Detail

Waterloo (NSW) has a projected population of approximately 18,757 in May 2026, calculated from regional census analysis and address validation records compiled by AreaSearch. Compared to the 16,379 residents recorded in the 2021 Census, this represents a growth of 2,378 individuals, or 14.5%. This estimation stems from a baseline population of 18,631 calculated using the ABS June 2025 release of official resident statistics, supplemented by 149 validated new addresses established post-census. The local density reaches 16,599 persons per square kilometer, placing Waterloo (NSW) within the highest 10% of all Australian locations analyzed and highlighting the high demand for local land.

The 14.5% rate of expansion since the 2021 census outpaced the broader New South Wales figure of 7.1% as well as the wider Sydney metropolitan area, positioning Waterloo (NSW) as a regional leader in population growth. This growth was largely underpinned by arrival numbers from abroad, which accounted for roughly 91.0% of the overall population gains in recent times. Projections utilized for Waterloo (NSW) incorporate the 2024 population estimates from the ABS and Geoscience Australia, which use 2022 as their starting point. Where this dataset does not cover specific tracts, figures are supplemented by NSW State Government projections released in 2022 with a 2021 baseline. Age-specific growth percentages from these datasets are applied to local forecasts spanning the years 2032 to 2041. Future demographic outlooks indicate that Waterloo (NSW) is situated within the top quartile of Australian regions for projected growth, with an expected increase of 7,552 residents by 2041 according to regional projections, which translates to a total gain of 39.6% over a 16-year period.

Frequently Asked Questions - Population

What is the latest population estimate for the suburb of Waterloo?
Total population for the suburb of Waterloo was estimated to be approximately 18,757 as at May 26. This is based upon an estimated resident population of 18,631 from the ABS up to June 2025.
How has the population in the suburb of Waterloo changed since 2021?
The suburb of waterloo has added approximately 2,378 people and shown a 14.52% increase from the 16,379 people recorded at the 2021 Census period.
What is the population density in the suburb of Waterloo?
The population density in the suburb of Waterloo is estimated at 16,599 persons per square kilometer based on the latest population estimate.
How much has the population grown over the past 10 years in the suburb of Waterloo?
Over the past 10 years, the population in the suburb of Waterloo has shown a compound annual growth rate of 2.5% per annum.
What are the main drivers of population growth in the suburb of Waterloo?
Population growth in the suburb of Waterloo is driven by: Overseas migration (91.0%), Natural increase (9.0%), Interstate migration (0.0%). The primary driver is Overseas migration, contributing 91.0% of overall population gains.

Residential SupplyHousing Development & Building Approvals in Waterloo (NSW)

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1,344 new dwellings have been approved in Waterloo (NSW) over the past five years, an average of 268 a year. That places the area in the 87th percentile for residential development activity nationally, about 14 approvals per 1,000 residents a year. Of the 232 dwellings approved in the latest reporting year, 0% were detached houses and the rest townhouses or apartments. Approvals are currently running at an annualised 460, running ahead of that longer-run average. Figures come from ABS building approvals aggregated to this Suburb (SAL) boundary and are updated monthly as the ABS releases them.

Detail

Data on municipal building approvals shows that Waterloo has seen an average of approximately 268 residential approvals each year, resulting in an estimated 1,344 new dwellings over the previous 5 financial years. During the current FY-26 period, 422 building approvals have been registered to date. With an average influx of 1.3 new occupants per year for each built dwelling over the 5 financial years from FY-21 to FY-25, residential supply is closely aligned with demand, fostering stable market conditions. Newly constructed properties carry an average valuation of $581,000, illustrating a focus by developers on building higher-end, upscale residences.

Furthermore, commercial building approvals have reached $3.0 million this financial year, reinforcing the residential focus of the suburb. Per capita building approvals in Waterloo are 176.0% higher than the average across Greater Sydney, providing prospective purchasers with a wider selection of homes, even though development velocity has slowed recently. This rate of construction is significantly higher than the national average, showcasing robust developer belief in the local market. Moreover, recent residential completions have consisted entirely of multi-unit attached dwellings. This emphasis on medium and high-density housing options offers more accessible purchase points and appeals to downsizers, property investors, and first-time buyers. The current ratio stands at approximately 82 individuals for every approved dwelling, reflecting a growing local market. Long-term projections indicate the population of Waterloo will expand by 7,426 residents by 2041, measured from the latest quarterly figures compiled by AreaSearch. The current pipeline of residential construction matches these projected requirements, which helps maintain stable market conditions without causing drastic upward pressure on property prices.

Frequently Asked Questions - Development

How many dwelling approvals have occurred in the suburb of Waterloo recently?
Dwelling approval activity in the the suburb of Waterloo area has seen 450 residential approvals over the past two financial years, based on AreaSearch's SA2 aggregation method. The suburb of Waterloo's current population of 18,757 has been supported by 268 approvals on average over recent years.
How does the suburb of Waterloo's development activity compare to the broader region?
The suburb of Waterloo has seen 1.56 approvals per 100 people in recent years, compared to 0.65 approvals in the broader region. This means that one dwelling has been approved for every 82 people in the suburb of Waterloo, compared to one for every 190 in the broader region.
Is the suburb of Waterloo keeping up with housing demand?
With the population expected to increase by 7,426 people by 2041, around 3,713 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels appear more than sufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling. This suggests that population growth may exceed trend projections in the coming years, supported by a robust housing supply.
What has been the trend in development approvals over the past five years in the suburb of Waterloo?
Looking at development activity over the past five years, the suburb of Waterloo's approval levels have been slightly above the yearly average of 268, showing modest growth in recent years.
How many dwellings will be needed to accommodate future population growth in the suburb of Waterloo?
The population in the suburb of Waterloo is expected to grow by 7,426 people by 2041, necessitating approximately 3,713 new dwellings. This calculation is based on the current census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling in the area.
How does recent development compare to population growth in the suburb of Waterloo?
Over the past five years, the population in the suburb of Waterloo has grown by approximately 9,602 people, while 1,344 residential approvals were recorded. This equates to a ratio of 7.1 people added for each new dwelling approval. This high ratio suggests strong population growth relative to housing supply, potentially indicating unmet housing demand.
Are there opportunities for residential developers in the suburb of Waterloo?
With dwelling approval activity running at an average of 268 approvals per year and a population of 18,757, the market appears to be adequately supplied relative to projected housing demand in recent years, suggesting that developers should have a longer-term approach when considering new projects. With the population expected to increase by 7,426 people by 2041, around 3,713 new dwellings will be necessary. Recent approval levels appear more than sufficient to meet these forecasts, considering the census average of 2.0 persons per dwelling. This suggests that population growth may exceed trend projections in the coming years, supported by a robust housing supply.
Approvals Pipeline Development applications near Waterloo (NSW)

Development applications around Waterloo (NSW)

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SOURCE: Planning portals and council registers, compiled by AreaSearch. Distance & bearing measured from the suburb midpoint.

Project PipelineInfrastructure & Major Projects in Waterloo (NSW)

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AreaSearch tracks 11 current infrastructure and development projects inside Waterloo (NSW), worth an estimated $5.17 billion. A further 143 sit in the immediately surrounding suburbs, taking the tracked pipeline within reach of the area to $71.4 billion. 53 are already under construction and 40 are due for completion within three years. The pipeline spans residential development, communities, precincts & urban renewal and transport & logistics. Records are compiled from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, council planning portals and public announcements, reviewed and updated daily, then ranked by proximity, construction stage, completion horizon and project scale.

Detail

Local infrastructure projects, planning choices, and development initiatives are key drivers of regional growth. A total of 42 active projects have been identified that are expected to influence the local area. Significant undertakings include the Danks Street District, the Waterloo Metro Quarter (Waterloo Collective), the development at 207 Young Street Waterloo, and the Waterloo Renewal Project - Waterloo South, with key details of the most relevant projects outlined below.

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Frequently Asked Questions - Infrastructure

What are some of the major infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Waterloo?
Key infrastructure and planning changes likely to influence the suburb of Waterloo include: Danks Street District (Construction); Waterloo Metro Quarter (Waterloo Collective) (Construction); 207 Young Street Waterloo (Construction); Waterloo Renewal Project - Waterloo South (Under Assessment); and Green Square Town Centre (Construction). These projects represent significant developments that will shape the area's future infrastructure landscape.
What types of infrastructure projects are impacting the suburb of Waterloo?
Infrastructure development impacting the suburb of Waterloo spans multiple sectors including Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal, Residential Development, and Education & Training, among others.
What is the scale of infrastructure investment impacting the suburb of Waterloo?
Infrastructure investment analysis indicates substantial capital deployment exceeding $18.6 billion in projects that will impact the extended area, with a notable concentration of investment within the immediate the suburb of Waterloo vicinity.
How does the suburb of Waterloo's infrastructure development compare to other areas?
The suburb of Waterloo ranks in the top 10% nationally for infrastructure development, reflecting exceptional investment activity compared to similar areas across the country.
Waterloo Metro Quarter (Waterloo Collective)
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2029
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The Waterloo Metro Quarter, marketed by the developer as Waterloo Collective, is a 900 million dollar mixed-use over-station development being delivered by a Mirvac and John Holland joint venture in partnership with the NSW Government. The precinct sits above and beside the new Sydney Metro Waterloo Station, which opened in August 2024 on the City and Southwest line. The site is bounded by Cope Street, Botany Road, Raglan Street and Wellington Street, and is divided into Southern, Central and Northern precincts.The Southern Precinct has been completed, comprising a 9-storey social housing building of 70 apartments operated by Homes NSW, with first tenants moving in from October 2025, a 25-storey IGLU-operated student accommodation building of around 474 student beds, the Cope Street Plaza and ground-plane retail and community space. The Central and Northern Precincts are being progressed under a revised concept, with the original commercial office tower replaced by additional housing in response to weak office demand. The Northern Precinct proposes two residential towers of 29 and 25 storeys delivering around 314 apartments including 40 affordable housing units, podium commercial space and ground floor retail. The Central Precinct proposes a 26-storey co-living building accommodating around 500 residents, plus retail, a childcare centre and community facilities. The revised State Significant Development Applications were on public exhibition until 15 January 2026 and remain under assessment by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Danks Street District
Category: Communities
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2028
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A large-scale mixed-use urban precinct by DASCO on a 1.7-hectare former industrial site at the corner of Bourke, Young, and McEvoy Streets in Waterloo. The development delivers 373 apartments across six buildings ranging from 6 to 20 storeys, designed by Bates Smart, MHNDU, Richards and Spence, and Fieldwork. The precinct includes 2,579 square metres of retail and hospitality space across laneways and a central public plaza, rooftop gardens, an outdoor gymnasium, music rooms, and end-of-trip facilities.Two heritage-listed structures - the 1922 Pumping Station and 1935 Valve House - will be restored as part of the project. Construction commenced December 2025 following a sod-turning ceremony attended by the NSW Building Commissioner.

Communities

207 Young Street Waterloo
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2028

Mixed-use build-to-rent precinct on the corner of Danks and Young Street delivering about 400 rental apartments and ~2,500 sqm of retail. Part of the Danks Street precinct revival, close to Green Square Station and the future Waterloo Metro.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Atlassian Central
Category: Business Parks & Technology Hubs
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2026
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Atlassian Central is a 39-storey, 183-metre tower under construction at 8-10 Lee Street, Haymarket, anchoring the NSW Government's Tech Central innovation precinct adjacent to Central Station. Designed by SHoP Architects and BVN, the building combines a steel exoskeleton with a hybrid mass timber and concrete structure, featuring seven four-storey internal timber 'habitats' built using more than 30,000 cubic metres of cross-laminated timber and glulam. Once complete, it will be the world's tallest commercial hybrid timber building.The tower offers 75,000 square metres of gross floor area (around 59,100 square metres net lettable) and is co-owned by Dexus and Atlassian. The lower five levels integrate a 137-room YHA hostel and the heritage-listed Parcel Shed, which is being adaptively re-used as the building lobby. Sustainability targets include a 50 percent reduction in embodied carbon, 100 percent renewable energy operation, a 5.5-star NABERS Energy commitment and a 6-star Green Star target, supported by an electricity-generating photovoltaic facade. Built and Obayashi Corporation joint venture (BOJV) commenced construction in August 2022. As of mid-2026 the tower has surpassed Milwaukee's Ascent to become the world's tallest hybrid timber tower, with Level 39 top-out scheduled for June 2026 and practical completion targeted for November 2026. Atlassian is expected to occupy five of the seven habitats from late 2028 following fit-out.

Business Parks & Technology Hubs

Mariyung Fleet (New Intercity Fleet)
Category: Transport & Logistics
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

The Mariyung Fleet is a 610-carriage double-deck electric train fleet (D sets) replacing the ageing V-set and Oscar fleets across the NSW intercity network. Delivered by the RailConnect NSW consortium (UGL, Hyundai Rotem, Mitsubishi Electric Australia), the trains feature wider 2x2 seating with arm rests, tray tables and cup holders, charging ports, dedicated luggage, pram and bicycle spaces, accessible toilets, dedicated wheelchair spaces, CCTV, digital information screens and Automatic Selective Door Operation. The fleet operates in 4, 6, 8 or 10-car formations.Passenger services commenced on the Central Coast & Newcastle Line on 3 December 2024, on the Blue Mountains Line on 13 October 2025, and on the South Coast Line on 14 April 2026. The South Coast Line rollout begins with seven 4 and 6-car sets, scaling to 16 trains by 2027 with 8-car sets later in 2026 and 10-car configurations in 2027. The project includes the Kangy Angy Maintenance Facility (operated by UGL on a 15-year contract) and extensive corridor upgrades including platform extensions, signalling modifications, balise installation and overhead wiring works.

Transport & Logistics

Green Square Town Centre
Category: Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2031
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

Green Square Town Centre is one of Australia's largest urban renewal projects, transforming a 278 hectare former industrial area in inner south Sydney into a high-density mixed-use precinct. When complete by 2030, it is planned to accommodate around 61,000 residents in approximately 33,000 dwellings and provide 21,000 to 22,000 jobs, just 3.5km from the Sydney CBD and 4km from Sydney Airport. The precinct holds a 6 Star Green Star Communities rating and includes the Green Square Library and Plaza, Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre, the new Green Square Public School and Community Spaces, more than 40 parks, and one of Australia's largest urban stormwater recycling schemes servicing over 4,000 apartments.Stages 1 and 2 of the town centre, delivered by Mirvac (which acquired Landcom's interest in 2020), are complete with around 800 homes across eight buildings, including The Frederick, Portman on the Park, Portman House and seven Portman Street terraces finished through 2024. The final stages 3, 4 and 5 are now being assessed as State Significant Developments under the Housing Delivery Authority pathway, with around 1,825 additional homes proposed across nine buildings (511 build-to-rent, 800 build-to-sell apartments and 514 student accommodation units) at a combined development cost of about 1.23 billion dollars. Stage 3 (Sites 7, 17 and 18 at 960A Bourke Street, SSD-83899206) and Stages 4 and 5 (Sites 8 and 19 at 411 Botany Road, SSD-84322496) were on public exhibition in early 2026, with a mid-2026 construction start slated for the next stage. Public domain works include three new streets (Woolpack, Hinchcliffe and Barker Streets) and the Ngamuru Avenue connector.

Precincts & Urban Renewal

Waterloo Renewal Project - Waterloo South
Category: Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Under Assessment | Est. Comp: 2041
Source / Links: Link 1   

Waterloo South is the first stage of the Waterloo Renewal Project, a major mixed-tenure urban renewal program on Gadigal Land in inner Sydney. The Concept State Significant Development Application and concurrent rezoning (SSD-93222706) propose around 3,300 new homes, including 50% social and affordable housing, plus upgraded parks, community facilities, shops, services and transport links along a revitalised George Street. Public exhibition closed on 2 June 2026 after attracting well over 100 submissions, and the application has since moved into the Response to Submissions stage ahead of formal assessment.The Waterloo Partnership, led by Stockland with Link Wentworth Housing, City West Housing and Birribee Housing, is working with Homes NSW (Land and Housing Corporation) to deliver Waterloo South over an estimated 10 to 15 year construction program, with demolition of existing public housing already underway on parts of the site.

Precincts & Urban Renewal

Erskineville Village
Category: Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal
Stage: Construction | Est. Comp: 2027
Source / Links: Link 1   Link 2  

A $2 billion urban renewal masterplan transforming a 50,000sqm former industrial site into a vibrant mixed-use precinct. The development features approximately 1,000 residences across Build-to-Rent (Nation) and Build-to-Sell (Lillian) stages, including 169 affordable housing units managed by Evolve Housing. Key infrastructure includes the 7,500sqm McPherson Park, the 20m wide Kooka Walk pedestrian boulevard, and a 5,000sqm retail and dining precinct featuring a supermarket and cafes.

Communities, Precincts & Urban Renewal

Jobs & IndustryEmployment Trends in Waterloo (NSW)

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10,824 residents of Waterloo (NSW) are employed, from a labour force of 11,697. Unemployment sits at 7.5%, with participation at 68.0%. Weighted for its industry mix, the area's sectors are forecast to grow about 7.2% nationally over five years. That reflects industry composition only and makes no allowance for local population growth, so in an area growing as fast as this one it understates the likely rise in local jobs. The working-day population is estimated at 16,065, about 86% of the resident population, so more people leave the area for work than travel in. Unemployment and labour force come from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, updated quarterly; the industry and occupation profile is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

The local workforce exhibits high levels of education, with a notable concentration of employees in the technology sector, alongside a registered unemployment rate of 7.5% and a 1.8% rise in employment over the preceding year. As of March 2026, the employed resident count stands at 10,824, with the local unemployment rate sitting 3.3% higher than the Greater Sydney average of 4.1%, pointing to potential for workforce absorption, while workforce participation aligns closely with the regional rate of 69.1%. Census responses also indicated that 58.5% of workers operated from home, though this figure reflects the influence of pandemic-related restrictions.

The primary sectors employing local residents are professional & technical services, financial & insurance services, and healthcare & social assistance. Waterloo shows a strong specialization in professional & technical services, with its employment share measuring 1.7 times the metropolitan average. Conversely, healthcare & social assistance is less prevalent locally, employing only 9.6% of the workforce compared to 14.1% across Greater Sydney. Comparing the count of locally employed workers against the total resident workforce suggests this predominantly residential area has limited local job opportunities. Analysis of labour statistics shows that during the 12 months leading to March 2026, the number of employed residents grew by 1.8% while the total labour force expanded by 1.0%, leading to a decrease of 0.7 percentage points in the unemployment rate. Over the same timeframe, Greater Sydney recorded employment growth of 1.9% and labour force expansion of 1.9%, accompanied by a minor reduction in unemployment. National forecasts released in May-25 by Jobs and Skills Australia point to future workforce demand trends, which have been aligned with the local industry profile to estimate future patterns. The national workforce is projected to grow by 6.6% over five years and 13.7% over ten years, though rates of expansion vary by industry. Weighting these projections against the current employment structure suggests local employment could expand by 7.2% over five years and 14.3% over ten years.

Frequently Asked Questions - Employment

What is the employment situation in the suburb of Waterloo?
As of March 2026, the suburb of Waterloo has approximately 10,824 employed residents with an unemployment rate of 7.5%. The elevated unemployment rate suggests challenging labour market conditions. The area faces employment challenges compared to other regions nationally.
How does the suburb of Waterloo's unemployment rate compare to the broader region?
As of March 2026, the unemployment rate in the suburb of Waterloo stands at 7.5%, which is 3.3 percentage points above Greater Sydney's rate of 4.1%. This higher unemployment rate may indicate local labour market challenges. For comparison, the national unemployment rate is 4.2%.
What are the major employment sectors in the suburb of Waterloo?
The employment landscape in the suburb of Waterloo is dominated by several key sectors. The largest employers are professional & technical (19.3% of employment), finance & insurance (10.3%), and health care & social assistance (9.6%). Other significant employers include retail trade and education & training.
How has employment changed recently in the suburb of Waterloo?
Over the past year to March 2026, the suburb of Waterloo has experienced employment growth, with total employment increasing while the labour force increased. As a result, the unemployment rate has fall. By comparison, Greater Sydney saw employment increased and its unemployment rate dropped.
What is the workforce participation rate in the suburb of Waterloo?
The workforce participation rate in the suburb of Waterloo is 68.0%, 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 trailing the Greater Sydney average of 69.1%, showing similar workforce dynamics to the broader region.
Which industries are over-represented in the suburb of Waterloo's employment market?
The suburb of waterloo shows notable specialization in professional & technical, which employs 19.3% of the local workforce compared to 11.5% regionally. 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.
What are the employment growth prospects for the suburb of Waterloo?
Based on Jobs and Skills Australia projections applied to the suburb of Waterloo's industry mix, employment is expected to grow by 7.2% over the next five years and 14.3% over ten years. This exceeds the national forecast of 6.6% over five years, suggesting the area's industry composition is well-positioned for future growth. Steady growth is anticipated across multiple sectors, providing diverse employment opportunities.
How does the job market in the suburb of Waterloo compare nationally?
The suburb of waterloo's employment market shows weaker performance compared to most areas nationally. This suggests the need for targeted economic development initiatives. Recent job advertisement trends show the broader employment region saw a 5.9% decline, ranking 29.0th out of 37 regions nationally.
What employment opportunities exist for skilled workers in the suburb of Waterloo?
Skilled workers will find excellent opportunities in the suburb of Waterloo, with knowledge-intensive sectors comprising 50.9% of local employment. Key sectors for skilled workers include professional & technical (19.3%), finance & insurance (10.3%), and health care & social assistance (9.6%). With projected employment growth of 7.2% over five years, demand for skilled workers is expected to remain strong.

EarningsHousehold Income in Waterloo (NSW)

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Median household income in Waterloo (NSW) is $2,028 a week (about $105,000 a year), with median personal income at $1,172 a week. ATO records put median taxable income at $64,199 a year against an average of $78,302. Household income is from the 2021 Census; taxable income is from ATO Taxation Statistics for the latest financial year available, indexed forward using the ABS Wage Price Index.

Detail

According to the latest ATO postcode records for the financial year 2023, the median taxpayer income in the area is $64,199, with an average income of $78,302. These figures are elevated on a national scale, comparing to a median of $60,817 and an average of $83,003 across Greater Sydney. Factoring in Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% since the financial year 2023, current estimates for March 2026 stand at roughly $70,824 for the median and $86,383 for the average. Census data places individual earnings in the 89th percentile across Australia, with weekly income at $1,172.

Income distributions show that the largest cohort, comprising 29.8% of the local population (5,589 people), earns between $1,500 and $2,999 weekly, which is similar to the regional average of 30.9%. Furthermore, 30.7% of households receive high weekly earnings exceeding $3,000, supporting local retail and services. Housing costs consume 24.9% of income, yet strong baseline earnings place the disposable income of residents in the 54th percentile, with the SEIFA index ranking the area in the 8th decile.

Frequently Asked Questions - Income

What is the median taxable income in the suburb of Waterloo?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Waterloo is approximately $70,824. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded a median of $64,199.
What is the average taxable income in the suburb of Waterloo?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Waterloo is approximately $86,383. The official ATO data from FY-23 recorded an average of $78,302.
How does the median taxable income in the suburb of Waterloo compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated median taxable income in the suburb of Waterloo is approximately $70,824 compared to $67,093 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $64,199 and $60,817 respectively.
How does the average taxable income in the suburb of Waterloo compare to the region?
Based on Wage Price Index adjustments to March 2026, the estimated average taxable income in the suburb of Waterloo is approximately $86,383 compared to $91,569 in Greater Sydney. The official ATO data from FY-23 shows $78,302 and $83,003 respectively.
What are the main income cohorts in the suburb of Waterloo according to the 2021 Census?
As per the 2021 Census, the income bracket containing the largest proportion (~29.8% / 5,589 persons) of the suburb of Waterloo's population is the $1,500 - 2,999 cohort.
How do the main income cohorts in the suburb of Waterloo compare to the region?
The largest income cohort in the suburb of Waterloo is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing about 29.8% of the population. In comparison, Greater Sydney's largest income cohort is the $1,500 - 2,999 group, representing 30.9% of its population, according to the 2021 Census.
What is the median household income in the suburb of Waterloo according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census data indicates that the median household income in the suburb of Waterloo is $2,028/wk.
What is the median family income in the suburb of Waterloo according to the 2021 Census?
According to the 2021 Census, the median family income in the suburb of Waterloo is $2,699/wk.
What is the median personal income in the suburb of Waterloo according to the 2021 Census?
The 2021 Census shows that the median personal income in the suburb of Waterloo is $1,172/wk.
How does the suburb of Waterloo's income rank nationally?
The suburb of Waterloo shows a median taxpayer income of $64,199 and an average of $78,302 according to the latest postcode level ATO data aggregated by AreaSearch for FY-23. This is well above average nationally, contrasting with Greater Sydney's median income of $60,817 and average income of $83,003. Based on Wage Price Index growth of 10.32% since FY-23, current estimates would be approximately $70,824 (median) and $86,383 (average) as of March 2026.
What is the disposable income in the suburb of Waterloo?
The estimated disposable income in the suburb of Waterloo is $6,599 per year according to AreaSearch analysis.
How does the suburb of Waterloo's disposable income compare to the region?
The suburb of waterloo's disposable income is $6,599 compared to $7,412 for Greater Sydney, based on AreaSearch analysis.

Housing StockHousing & Dwellings in Waterloo (NSW)

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Waterloo (NSW) had 8,046 occupied dwellings at the 2021 Census, 1% detached houses and 91% apartments. 18% are owned with a mortgage, 75% rented and 6% owned outright. At that Census the median rent was $530 a week and the median mortgage repayment $2,500 a month, a total housing cost higher than 98% of areas nationally. Rent absorbs 26.1% of household income here and mortgage repayments 28.4%. Dwelling stock, tenure and housing costs are 2021 Census measures — the only source that counts dwellings at this boundary size.

Detail

At the time of the latest Census, the housing stock consisted of 0.5% standalone houses and 99.4% alternative dwellings, such as townhouses and apartments, in contrast to the metropolitan Sydney split of 55.9% houses and 44.1% other dwellings. Homeownership rates in the area were lower than the Sydney metropolitan average, standing at 6.3%, with the remaining properties occupied by residents with a mortgage (18.4%) or renting (75.3%). The median monthly mortgage payment was higher than the metropolitan average at $2,500, while the median weekly rent was $530, compared to Sydney averages of $2,427 and $470 respectively.

Locally, monthly mortgage costs are higher than the national average of $1,863, and weekly rents exceed the Australian baseline of $375.

Frequently Asked Questions - Housing

What percentage of homes are owned vs rented in the suburb of Waterloo?
In the suburb of Waterloo, 6.3% of homes are owned outright, 18.4% are owned with a mortgage, and 75.3% are rented.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Waterloo are houses?
According to the latest data, 0.5% of dwellings in the suburb of Waterloo are houses.
What percentage of dwellings in the suburb of Waterloo are apartments or units?
In the suburb of Waterloo, 91.2% of dwellings are apartments or units, with an additional 8.1% being semi-detached dwellings.
What is the level of outright home ownership in the suburb of Waterloo?
Outright home ownership in the suburb of Waterloo stands at 6.3%, compared to 28.7% in Greater Sydney.
What is the median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Waterloo?
The median monthly mortgage repayment in the suburb of Waterloo is $2,500, compared to $2,427 in Greater Sydney.
What is the median weekly rent in the suburb of Waterloo?
The median weekly rent in the suburb of Waterloo is $530, compared to $470 in Greater Sydney.
What is the distribution of rental prices in the suburb of Waterloo?
In the suburb of Waterloo, 19.4% of rentals are $0-149/week, 10.1% are $150-349/week, 42.7% are $350-649/week, 25.9% are $650-949/week, and 1.8% are $950+/week.
What is the average monthly housing cost in the suburb of Waterloo?
The aggregate monthly housing cost in the suburb of Waterloo is $2,189, which represents the average monthly cost across all housing types.
What percentage of income do residents spend on housing in the suburb of Waterloo?
In the suburb of Waterloo, households with mortgages typically spend 28.4% of their income on mortgage repayments, while renters spend 26.1% of their income on rent.
How crowded are homes in the suburb of Waterloo?
The average persons per bedroom ratio in the suburb of Waterloo is 1.1, indicating the level of household density.
How does housing affordability in the suburb of Waterloo compare to the region?
Housing affordability in the suburb of Waterloo shows mortgage holders spending 28.4% of income on repayments (vs 27.0% regionally), while renters spend 26.1% of income on rent (vs 22.6% regionally).
What types of dwellings are most common in the suburb of Waterloo?
The dwelling mix in the suburb of Waterloo consists of 0.5% detached houses, 8.1% semi-detached dwellings, 91.2% apartments, and 0.1% other dwelling types.
What is the weighted average housing cost based on tenure mix in the suburb of Waterloo?
Accounting for the local ownership mix, the weighted average monthly housing cost is approximately $2,188. This accounts for outright owners paying no housing costs, mortgage holders paying $2,500/month, and renters paying $2,295/month.
How affordable is housing in the suburb of Waterloo relative to local incomes?
Housing in Waterloo consumes approximately 24.9% of median household income ($8,781 monthly), indicating costs are highly affordable. The generally accepted benchmark is that housing should not exceed 30% of household income.
How do proposed developments compare to existing housing types in the suburb of Waterloo?
Recent development applications in Waterloo show attached dwellings contributing 100% of approvals compared to 100% of existing stock, while detached houses represent 0% of applications versus 0% of current dwellings. This suggests development patterns consistent with existing housing mix. Waterloo is experiencing exceptional growth in housing density, ranking in the top 10% nationally.

HouseholdsHousehold Composition in Waterloo (NSW)

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Waterloo (NSW) counted 8,046 households at the 2021 Census, an estimated 9,214 today, averaging 1.8 people each. 9% are couples with children, fewer than in 97% of areas nationally, against 31% couples without children. 41% of households are people living alone, and families average 0.6 children. Household and family composition is measured only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

Families make up 46.6% of all households, consisting of couples with children at 9.4%, couples without children at 30.5%, and single parents at 5.4%. The remaining 53.4% are non-family households, with single-person households representing 40.5% and group households making up 12.8% of the total. The average household size of 1.8 people is smaller than the Greater Sydney average of 2.7.

Frequently Asked Questions - Households

How many households are in the suburb of Waterloo?
As of the 2021 Census, the suburb of Waterloo had 8,046 households. Based on population growth patterns, this has grown by approximately 14.5% to an estimated 9,214 households today.
What is the typical household size?
The median household size in the suburb of Waterloo is 1.8 people. This compares to 2.7 in Greater Sydney and reflects the area's household composition mix.
What types of households are most common?
Family households dominate at 46.6% of all households. The remaining households consist of lone person households (40.5%), group households (12.8%), and other household types (0.0%).
How are families structured in the area?
Among the 3,749 family households, 9.4% are couples with children, 30.5% are couples without children at home, and 5.4% are single parent families. This mix shapes local demand for schools, family services, and housing types.
How does the suburb of Waterloo compare to regional household patterns?
Compared to Greater Sydney, the suburb of Waterloo shows distinct household patterns. Lone person households are notably over-represented at 40.5% (versus 23.2% regionally). Conversely, family households are under-represented at 46.6% compared to the regional 72.6%. This higher proportion of single-person households drives demand for smaller dwellings and different community services.
What is the average family size?
Families in the suburb of Waterloo have an average of 0.6 children, slightly below the Greater Sydney average of 1.5. This influences local demand for child-related services and larger family homes.
What are the marriage patterns in the suburb of Waterloo?
Marriage patterns reveal 22.4% of the adult population are currently married, while 64.4% have never married. This compares to 48.3% married and 36.4% never married across Greater Sydney.
How significant are single-person households?
Single-person households represent 40.5% of all households in the suburb of Waterloo, higher than the regional average of 23.2%. This affects demand for smaller dwellings and single-person accommodation.
Are shared living arrangements common?
Group households (unrelated people sharing) account for 12.8% of households, well below the Greater Sydney average of 4.2%. This low rate suggests limited student or young professional shared accommodation.
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EducationSchools & Education in Waterloo (NSW)

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56.1% of adults in Waterloo (NSW) hold a university qualification, including 36.6% with a bachelor degree and 16.7% with postgraduate qualifications. A further 10.8% hold a vocational qualification. 2 schools serve the area, with 119 enrolment places and an average ICSEA of 895 against a national benchmark of 1,000. Qualifications come from the 2021 Census; school enrolments, ICSEA and results come from ACARA's current release.

Detail

Attainment levels among local residents are high, with 56.1% of individuals aged 15 and over holding a university degree, compared to national and state averages of 30.4% and 32.2% respectively. This educational profile positions the workforce well for roles in knowledge-intensive sectors. Bachelor degrees are the most common qualification at 36.6%, followed by postgraduate degrees at 16.7% and graduate diplomas at 2.8%. Vocational education accounts for 21.3% of qualifications among residents aged 15 and over, split between advanced diplomas at 10.5% and certificates at 10.8%. A significant proportion of the population is engaged in study, with 29.1% of residents enrolled in an educational program.

This student population includes 14.1% in higher education, 3.3% in primary schooling, and 2.0% attending secondary schools.

Frequently Asked Questions - Education

What percentage of people in the suburb of Waterloo have university qualifications?
56.1% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Waterloo have university qualifications, compared to 38.0% in the broader region.
What percentage of people in the suburb of Waterloo have no formal qualifications?
22.6% of people aged 15 and over in the suburb of Waterloo have no formal qualifications, compared to 34.2% regionally.
How does the suburb of Waterloo's education level compare to national averages?
The suburb of waterloo ranks in the 30th percentile nationally for education based on AreaSearch's analysis of qualification and performance metrics.
What types of qualifications are most common in the suburb of Waterloo?
The most common qualifications in the suburb of Waterloo are: Bachelor Degree (36.6%), Postgraduate (16.7%), Certificate (10.8%).
What proportion of the suburb of Waterloo's population is currently attending educational institutions?
29.1% of the population in the suburb of Waterloo is currently engaged in formal education, with 3.3% in primary school, 2.0% in secondary school, 14.1% at university.
What is the ICSEA score for schools in the suburb of Waterloo?
The average ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) score for schools in the suburb of Waterloo is 895, indicating below-average socio-educational advantage compared to the national average of 1000.
How many schools are located within the suburb of Waterloo?
There are 2 schools within the suburb of Waterloo, with a combined enrollment of approximately 119 students.
What types of schools are available in the suburb of Waterloo?
The suburb of waterloo includes 1 primary school, 1 combined school.

Schools Detail

AmenitiesServices & Amenities in Waterloo (NSW)

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Getting AroundTransport & Commuting in Waterloo (NSW)

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Public transport in Waterloo (NSW) reaches 39 stops on 16 routes, timetabled for about 11,500 services a week. The typical home sits about 100 m from its nearest stop. Buses carry the largest share of public transport commuters. Households keep an average of 0.3 vehicles. Stop and service counts are built from operators' published GTFS timetables and refresh with each timetable release; vehicle ownership is from the 2021 Census.

Detail

Public transport services in Waterloo include 39 active stops, encompassing a network of light rail and bus routes. These facilities are served by 16 distinct transport routes, which facilitate 11,492 passenger trips on a weekly basis. Accessibility is high, with the average resident living within 100 meters of a stop. Because the suburb is primarily residential, the majority of working residents commute to other areas, with private vehicles being the most common mode of travel at 44%, followed by buses at 16%, and walking at 14%. Private vehicle ownership averages 0.3 cars per household, which is lower than the metropolitan average.

Additionally, 58.5% of working residents worked from home according to the 2021 Census, which was influenced by pandemic-related restrictions. Public transport services provide an average of 1,641 daily trips across all routes, which translates to approximately 294 weekly services for each individual transit stop.

Frequently Asked Questions - Transport

How many public transport stops are in Waterloo (NSW)?
There are 39 public transport stops within the suburb of Waterloo.
How frequent are the transport services in Waterloo (NSW)?
the suburb of Waterloo has 11,492 weekly trips across 16 routes, averaging 1,641 trips per day.
How far are residents from public transport in Waterloo (NSW)?
On average, residential properties are 100 meters from the nearest transport stop.

Transport Stops Detail

HealthcareHealth Services in Waterloo (NSW)

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76.2% of residents in Waterloo (NSW) report no long-term health condition. 4.5% need daily assistance with core activities, and 57.9% hold private health cover. The standardised death rate runs at 5.5 per 1,000 residents. Health conditions, assistance needs and insurance are 2021 Census measures; the death rate comes from current ABS releases.

Detail

Health indicators are positive overall, with local mortality and illness rates aligning closely with national averages. The prevalence of chronic conditions is low in the general population, though it exceeds national baselines within older, higher-risk cohorts. Private health insurance coverage is high, held by approximately 58% of the population, representing about 10,850 people, which is comparable to the Greater Sydney average of 59.9%. The most prevalent diagnosed conditions are mental health concerns and asthma, affecting 8.4% and 6.6% of residents respectively. Conversely, 76.2% of the population reported no chronic health issues, compared to 74.6% across Greater Sydney.

Residents under the age of 65 experience better-than-average health outcomes. The proportion of residents aged 65 and older stands at 10.5% (1,969 people), which is lower than the Greater Sydney average of 15.5%. Health outcomes within this senior cohort present some challenges, ranking lower nationally than the younger demographics.

Frequently Asked Questions - Health

How many people in the suburb of Waterloo have private health insurance?
Around 57.9% of people in the suburb of Waterloo are covered by private health insurance, which compares to 59.9% in the broader region of Greater Sydney.
What percentage of the population requires ongoing medical assistance in the suburb of Waterloo?
In the suburb of Waterloo, 4.5% of the population is identified as requiring ongoing medical assistance. This figure is slightly different from the regional average, where 5.2% of people in Greater Sydney require similar assistance.
How prevalent is asthma in the suburb of Waterloo?
6.6% of people in the suburb of Waterloo are diagnosed with asthma. In comparison, 6.4% of the population across Greater Sydney is affected by asthma.
What percentage of people have diabetes in the suburb of Waterloo?
Diabetes affects 3.2% of the the suburb of Waterloo population, while in the surrounding region, 4.3% of people are diagnosed with diabetes.
What is the percentage of people with heart disease in the suburb of Waterloo?
2.3% of people in the suburb of Waterloo have heart disease. Across the region of Greater Sydney, 3.2% of the population is affected by heart disease.
How does the suburb of Waterloo compare to the region in terms of overall private health coverage?
In the suburb of Waterloo, 57.9% of the population are estimated to have private health insurance. Comparatively, Greater Sydney sees an estimated private health coverage rate of 59.9%.

Ancestry & LanguageCultural Diversity in Waterloo (NSW)

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59.3% of Waterloo (NSW) residents were born overseas and 43.3% speak a language other than English at home, more culturally diverse than 91% of areas nationally. The largest reported ancestries are English (18.2%) and Chinese (16.1%). Ancestry, language and country of birth are counted only by the Census, so these are 2021 figures.

Detail

The area exhibits high levels of cultural diversity, with 43.3% of residents speaking a language other than English at home and 59.3% born outside of Australia. Christianity is the most common religious affiliation, representing 32.2% of the population. The most pronounced religious divergence is in Judaism, which is practiced by 1.6% of residents, compared to 0.8% across the broader Sydney metropolitan area. Regarding ancestral backgrounds, the three most common heritages are English at 18.2%, Other at 16.7%, and Chinese at 16.1%, which is higher than the regional representation of 8.4%.

Other heritage groups show distinct local concentrations, with Russian ancestry representing 1.7% of the population compared to 0.4% regionally, Spanish ancestry at 1.3% compared to 0.6%, and French ancestry at 0.9% compared to 0.5%.

Frequently Asked Questions - Diversity

What is the level of cultural diversity in the suburb of Waterloo?
Waterloo is among the most culturally diverse areas in the country, with 43.3% of its population speaking a language other than English at home and 59.3% born overseas.
What is the most common religion in the suburb of Waterloo?
The main religion in Waterloo was found to be Christianity, which makes up 32.2% of people in Waterloo. However, the most apparent overrepresentation was in Judaism, which comprises 1.6% of the population, compared to 0.8% across Greater Sydney.
What are the top countries of origin in the suburb of Waterloo?
In terms of ancestry (country of birth of parents), the top three represented groups in Waterloo are English, comprising 18.2% of the population, Other, comprising 16.7% of the population, and Chinese, comprising 16.1% of the population, which is substantially higher than the regional average of 8.4%. Additionally, there are notable divergences in the representation of certain other ethnic groups: Russian is notably overrepresented at 1.7% of Waterloo (vs 0.4% regionally), Spanish at 1.3% (vs 0.6%) and French at 0.9% (vs 0.5%).
How does the percentage of people born overseas compare to the regional average?
59.3% of the the suburb of Waterloo population was born overseas, compared to 40.5% regionally.
What percentage of the the suburb of Waterloo population speaks a language other than English at home?
43.3% of the population in the suburb of Waterloo speaks a language other than English at home, compared to 39.5% in the wider region.
How many people in the suburb of Waterloo identify as Australian Aboriginal?
2.2% of the the suburb of Waterloo population identifies as Australian Aboriginal, compared to 1.3% in the region.
What is the citizenship status of the population in the suburb of Waterloo?
59.0% of the the suburb of Waterloo population holds citizenship, compared to 80.8% in the wider region.

Age StructureAge Profile of Waterloo (NSW)

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The median resident of Waterloo (NSW) is 33, younger than 86% of areas nationally. 46.9% of residents are aged 15 to 34. Age cohorts are not raw Census counts: the Census split is re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections.

Detail

With a median age of 33, Waterloo is younger than the Greater Sydney median of 37 and the national median of 38. The suburb has a high concentration of residents aged 25 to 34, who make up 33.2% of the population, compared to a lower proportion of children aged 5 to 14, who represent 3.8%. The concentration of young adults aged 25 to 34 is higher than the national average of 14.6%. Since the 2021 Census, the proportion of residents aged 15 to 24 grew from 11.4% to 13.7%, and the 35 to 44 cohort rose from 18.4% to 19.9%.

Meanwhile, the 25 to 34 cohort decreased from 35.6% to 33.2%. By 2041, demographic forecasts project that the 25 to 34 age group will grow by 31%, adding 1,939 residents to reach a total of 8,167.

Frequently Asked Questions - Age

What is the median age in the suburb of Waterloo?
According to the latest data, the median age in the suburb of Waterloo is 33 years.
How does the suburb of Waterloo's median age compare to broader areas?
At 33 years, Waterloo is 4 years younger than the Greater Sydney average (37 years) and 5 years younger than the national average (38 years).
What age groups are over-represented in the suburb of Waterloo?
The most over-represented age group in the suburb of Waterloo compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 25 - 34 group, making up 33.2% of the population.
What age groups are under-represented in the suburb of Waterloo?
The most under-represented age group in the suburb of Waterloo compared to the Greater Sydney region is the 5 - 14 group, making up 3.8% of the population.
Are there age groups with notable population variances?
Yes, certain age groups in the suburb of Waterloo show significant variance compared to the Greater Sydney region. The most over-represented age group is 25-34 year-olds (33.2% vs 16.1%). The most under-represented age groups are 5-14 year-olds (3.8% vs 11.9%) and 75-84 year-olds (3.3% vs 5.3%).
What is the percentage of children (0-14 years) in the suburb of Waterloo?
The percentage of children aged 0-14 years in the suburb of Waterloo is 7.7%.
What is the percentage of older people (65+ years) in the suburb of Waterloo?
The percentage of people aged 65 and over in the suburb of Waterloo is 10.5%.

Data & MethodBoundaries, Sources & Method for Waterloo (NSW)

Data currency Refreshed

9 of 14 data sections on this page were updated within the last 12 months — the newest current to Aug 2026.

Everything is aggregated to the Suburb (SAL) boundary shown above, on a 2021 Census baseline. Only 3 sections — housing, households and cultural diversity — still wait on the 2026 Census.

The ledger — source, cycle and currency by section

Section Source & update cycle Currency
Updated within the last 12 months 9 sections
Population ABS, GNAF, Geoscience Australia Annual (ABS ERP) May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release) and updated with new dwellings from GNAF address data. Current to May 2026, with the 2021 Census supplying the small-area baseline.
Age profile ABS, Geoscience Australia, State governments Annual May 2026 3 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Age cohorts are re-based to the latest ABS population estimates and state projections, current to May 2026. Each cohort is held as a Census baseline and a current estimate.
Development & approvals ABS, GNAF Monthly (ABS approvals) Jun 2026 2 months ago headline measures · May 2026 baseline
Property sales & rents Valuer General, Rental Board, ABS Weekly sales, quarterly rents Aug 2026 this month all 21 measures
Sales from the state Valuer General register, refreshed weekly, and rents from quarterly rental bond lodgements. Both are read live each time this page loads, current to Aug 2026.
Infrastructure projects Infrastructure Australia, State agencies, Local governments Daily Aug 2026 this month all 11 projects tracked here
Project pipeline maintained continuously from Infrastructure Australia, state agencies, local government and public announcements. Records are added and revised daily; this area was last updated Aug 2026.
Employment ABS, DEWR, JSA Quarterly (ABS SALM) Mar 2026 5 months ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Unemployment and labour force from ABS Small Area Labour Markets, current to Mar 2026. The growth outlook applies Department of Employment (now Jobs and Skills Australia) forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to the local industry mix, so it measures sector composition rather than local expansion and makes no allowance for population growth. Job demand comes from the same agency via its Internet Vacancy Index; industry and occupation structure from the 2021 Census.
Education ABS, ACARA Annual (ACARA) Aug 2026 this month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Transport ABS, State Transport Departments Each timetable release Jul 2026 last month headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Services & amenities Provider directories, ACECQA Continuous Jul 2026 last month all 14 measures
Annual and financial-year sources 2 sections
Income ABS, ATO Annual (ATO) FY 2023 3 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
ATO taxable income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index. Census household income provides the distribution detail.
Health ABS, ATO Annual 2024 2 years ago headline measures · 2021 Census baseline
Census-measured — next update: 2026 Census 3 sections No more current small-area source exists for these, so they are labelled as Census-measured rather than implied to be current.
Housing ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 30 measures
Households ABS 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 18 measures
Cultural diversity ABS, Geoscience Australia 5-yearly (Census) 2021 Census next update 2026 all 44 measures

"Currency" is the most recent release feeding that section. Where the Census supplies the structural baseline underneath a current headline figure, the row says so.

How the numbers are built

Population

The Census provides the small-area baseline, aggregated from mesh blocks to this boundary. It is then re-based to the ABS Estimated Resident Population (June 2025 release), and new dwellings built since Census night are counted from address data — 149 validated new addresses here. The headline figure is therefore a current estimate for May 2026, not a 2021 count (16,379 at the 2021 Census → 18,757 now). Annual growth rates are compound (CAGR), not simple averages.

Age profile

Cohort shares are not raw Census counts. Every cohort is held as a pair — the Census baseline and a current estimate — and the split is re-based using ERP and state population projections, current to May 2026. Median age is the Census median plus modelled change since. Charts that show both are labelled "2021 Census vs Current Estimate".

Property sales

Sourced from the state valuation authority's sales register — current, not Census, and refreshed weekly. Medians are calculated from settled transactions in the period shown; periods with very low transaction counts are flagged or suppressed, because a handful of sales can move a median substantially.

Rents

Derived from state rental bond lodgement data, by dwelling type and bedroom count. Bonds are lodged at the start of a new tenancy, so this reflects new lettings, not the whole rented stock.

Development & infrastructure

Building approvals come from current ABS releases; development applications are collected from council and state planning portals; the infrastructure pipeline is compiled from Infrastructure Australia and local government sources. Applications are matched to this boundary by address or coordinates, so very recent lodgements may not yet appear.

Employment & income

Industry and occupation structure comes from the Census, but the headline labour-market indicators do not. Unemployment and labour force are derived from ABS Small Area Labour Markets (quarterly). The employment outlook applies Department of Employment forecasts for all 19 industry divisions to this area's own industry mix (the agency is now Jobs and Skills Australia), as does the Internet Vacancy Index used for job demand. Because it is weighted on industry composition alone, that outlook carries no allowance for local population growth — in fast-growing areas the real rise in local jobs will typically be higher. Income combines Census household income with ATO taxable-income statistics for FY 2023, indexed forward using the Wage Price Index.

Education, transport & amenities

School enrolments, ICSEA and performance come from ACARA's current release, not the Census. Public transport stops and service frequency are derived from GTFS timetable feeds published by state transport departments. Services and amenities are proximity and count scores built from provider directories, refreshed on their own cycle. The Census contributes only the travel-to-work and qualification measures.

Rankings and benchmarks. Where we rank this area, the comparison set is every area of the same boundary type — suburbs against suburbs, SA2s against SA2s. Benchmarks compare this area against its greater capital city region and the national figure for the same measure and period.

Limits worth knowing. Small areas carry larger error margins, and the ABS introduces small random adjustments to Census counts to protect confidentiality — so totals may not sum exactly. Estimates re-based from regional data describe the area's expected trajectory, not a direct count of it. Figures are indicative for research and are not financial, planning or valuation advice.

Cross-check us. The Census baseline for this boundary is at ABS 2021 Census QuickStats (SAL14201). QuickStats reports 2021 only — the figures on this page are more current wherever the ledger shows a later date.

Common questions about this page

How do Waterloo (NSW) suburb boundaries differ from Statistical Areas?
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/statistical reporting. Even when sharing the same name, SAL and SA2 boundaries often cover different geographic areas with different populations.
Where does the data on this Waterloo (NSW) page come from?
AreaSearch compiles this page from official and industry sources — including ABS, Geoscience Australia, Valuer General, Provider directories, DEWR, JSA, State Transport Departments and ACARA — then aggregates them to the boundary shown and calculates the rankings, 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.
Is the Waterloo (NSW) data on this page just from the 2021 Census?
No. Most of this page is maintained well beyond the Census. Sourced entirely from current releases: development & approvals (Jun 2026), property sales & rents (Aug 2026), infrastructure projects (Aug 2026) and services & amenities (Jul 2026). Built on a Census baseline but carrying newer measures on top: population (to May 2026), age profile (to May 2026), employment (to Mar 2026), income (to FY 2023), education (to Aug 2026), transport (to Jul 2026) and health (to 2024). Population and age cohorts in particular are re-based to the latest ABS Estimated Resident Population rather than left at 2021 counts. Only housing, households and cultural diversity remain wholly Census-based, because no more current small-area dataset exists for those measures.

Nearby Areas