It's easy to see why Sydney is considered by many to be one of Australia's most desirable housing markets. Sydney offers some of Australia's best beaches, a world-famous harbour, and an outstanding restaurant scene.
Sydney's cost of living is high, no mistake about it, but there are still many options for first-time homebuyers and investors. Knowing what to look for is essential.
There is no certain solution to the age-old question, "What is the best neighborhood in Sydney?" Because of the city's size (it stretches over 12,000 kilometres), no two suburbs in Sydney are the same.
For example, the hustle and bustle of the metropolis is a world away from the unspoilt beaches of the North Shore. You can locate affordable apartments and tranquil suburban enclaves not far from the central business district.
The best Sydney neighbourhood for you to live in or purchase a property in will be the one that most suits your requirements, finances, and tastes. To help you get started, though, we've compiled an overview of some of Sydney's most sought-after neighbourhoods. We've got you covered whether you're looking for the greatest area to raise a family in Sydney or just the safest and most liveable suburbs.
Four of Sydney's middle-ring suburbs in the south and south-west made PRD Sydney's recent list of the city's most liveable neighbourhoods. Peakhurst, Jannali, Narwee, and Caringbah were those areas. These locations were the least expensive suburbs within twenty kilometres of the city centre, yet they offered convenient access to a wide range of services, facilities, parks, and employment prospects.
This was a surprising change from the 2019 Domain Liveable Sydney poll, which found that the Lower North Shore suburbs dominated the top 10 ranks. This may indicate a shift in priorities, with Sydney residents favouring open areas to scenic vistas.
However, the word "liveable" has a variety of connotations. The ideal location may be a short stroll to work or a bustling neighbourhood full of cafés and restaurants for some, or it may simply be a short drive to the beach for others. We've compiled a list of 10 of Sydney's most promising emerging neighbourhoods.
From a domestic perspective, there are five primary factors to take into account. Here are some of them:
- Safety
- Excellent possibilities for learning
- A great way of life and a wonderful normal life for childre
- Reasonably priced property and a pleasant suburban environment.
- Safe and dependable public transportation
There is no objective answer because the aforementioned criteria are not all equal.
Considerations When Selecting A Suburb
Finding a good suburb to call home requires more than simply a "warm and fuzzy" feeling. There are a number of aspects that have an impact on the standard of life and the resale value of a property.
When looking for a new place to call home, keep these things in mind.
- Affordability - Whatever your salary may be, it's important to spend just what you can afford. Rent costs are only one component of overall affordability. There is a large disparity in food costs between cities. Gasoline costs more or less at different stations, and so do the costs of other utilities and taxes.
- Schools - The quality of the local schools will be your first concern while looking for a new home if you have children. Both you and your children will profit from sending them to a good school. Property values in locations with high-quality schools tend to rise quickly since so many families move there.
- Security - We get that you don't want to settle in a dangerous neighbourhood, but we also realise there is no such thing as a perfectly safe suburb. Be sure to look into the area's crime rates and statistics before making a final decision. Stop by the local police station after you've settled in to get the lay of the land. If you have any safety concerns about the area, the police are here to help. Remember that the current security of a neighbourhood is no guarantee of its continued security in the future. The permanence of a neighbourhood's peace is a major influence in how secure it is to live there.
- Healthcare Facilities -Having access to medical care is important at any age, but especially so if you have young children or elderly relatives living with you. Finding a suburb near a good hospital or medical school might greatly improve your quality of life. The availability of high-quality medical care tends to go hand in hand with living in affluent suburbs.
- Proximity To Central Business District (CBD) - If your place of employment is in the Central Business District, then having all of your needs met right outside your door is a top priority. How long it will take you to commute to work is something to consider while relocating. Avoid arriving late at the office at any cost. In addition, you should expect a bigger yield the nearer your location is to the CBD.
- Local Amenities - It doesn't matter where you reside, it's always helpful to have a variety of local services within walking distance. Parks, stores, public transit, and recreation centres are examples of amenities. A convenient suburb where you can get all of your essential needs met within shouting distance can simplify your life and increase your long-term prosperity prospects.
- Means Of Transport - Convenience to both public transportation and main thoroughfares is also a selling point. If you're renting a home, you might not have a car and instead rely on public transportation to get to work. Walking distance to public transportation options including bus stops, ferry terminals, and railway stations is a major selling advantage. The convenience of being near major thoroughfares is especially important if you drive.
Best For Families
There is no one perfect suburb to raise a family in. It is dependent upon your needs. Perhaps you value proximity to top-notch educational institutions, hospitals, or even just a relaxed community with plenty of parks and cafes.
No matter what you're looking for in a neighbourhood, you should do your homework before making a purchase. The following are examples of excellent family-friendly suburbs:
Newtown
Newtown is home to hip eateries, unique thrift shops, and stylish locals. It's close to Sydney University, a top-notch medical centre, and the locals are quite welcoming. Depending on what time of day, a trip to the central business district on public transit takes anywhere from fifteen to thirty minutes.
It's true that Newtown is a rapidly expanding neighbourhood, but it's not without its drawbacks. As a first point, the rent is somewhat steep. In addition, Newtown's proximity to the central business district makes it a lively and noisy location to live; if silence is a priority, you might want to look elsewhere.
Camperdown
The oldest and most renowned medical facilities, such as the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, are all located in Camperdown. The University of Sydney and the subway system are both within walking distance.
Also, the distance from the central business district is only 10 kilometres, which can be covered in less than ten minutes. Camperdown, on the other hand, has pricey apartments but no nearby train station.
Glebe
Glebe's proximity to the Victoria Park, University of Sydney, and UTS, as well as the neighbourhood's abundance of river bays and parks, all contribute to the neighbourhood's high property value. Its convenient access to the central business district makes it a top choice for working couples and families with young children.
Best For Students
It stands to reason that a student would look for housing either in close proximity to their school or in a location that provides convenient access to public transportation. Possible great suburbs for you to consider are as follows:
Enmore
As an Inner West neighbourhood, Enmore is undoubtedly stunning. It has many parks where you and your friends may relax and enjoy the weather, as well as Victorian-era terraces and other forms of public art. There are also plenty of excellent eating and drinking establishments within easy walking distance.
Kingsford
You'll find UNSW and Precinct Hospital, as well as a great transportation network, all within easy reach of your new home in Kingsford. Further, the gardens at Westfield East are only a six-minute drive away. As a student, you'll appreciate its convenient location near both your institutions and the city.
Ultimo
Living in Ultimo is easy because of its proximity to both good schools and beautiful beaches. Students will find it to be a haven thanks to the high quality of both the public transportation system and the several prestigious educational institutions located there.
The Best Option For Young Professionals
A number of Sydney neighbourhoods, especially those in the city's inner rings, provide excellent nightlife options for young professionals who are willing to commute to the central business district. Among these outlying areas are:
Paddington
Some of the wonderful things to do in Paddington include going out to eat and drinking with a mixed group. The city may be reached quickly and easily from here. It's pricey to live here, but there are some nice studios and one-bedroom apartments that are perfect for young professionals who aren't starting families.
Darlinghurst
The Central Business District (CBD) is easily reachable on foot from Darlinghurst. It is filled with trendy cafes, restaurants, and shops perfect for the young urban professional. It's conveniently located near Paddington, Oxford Street and King's Cross Station.
Balmain
This Balmain stuff is incredible. You can find sandstones, historic structures, and other forms of architectural interest everywhere. The harbour area is home to green spaces, religious buildings, and pathways ideal for strolling.
Whether you take the bus or the boat, you'll be in the heart of the city in under an hour. Weekend markets, jazz bands, and other low-key social activities make Balmain a great place for young professionals to call home.
Best For Retirees
When deciding where to settle in retirement, retirees prioritise three factors: cost of living, quality of life, and potential for appreciation. Some of Sydney's neighbourhoods that are suitable for your needs are as follows:
Bayview
Bayview is conveniently located near the Central Business District and boasts proximity to the beach and beautiful waterways like Pittwater. This is the perfect suburb for the environmentally conscious resident. It's a great place to put your retirement money because it's still growing and developing.
Pennant Hills
The community of Pennant Hills is fantastic. Access the Pennant Hills train station and Thorn Leigh with ease from here. The accessibility is high due to the convenient transportation alternatives. There is a quaint library and some stores in the vicinity. Because of this, it's a great option for retirees like you who want to make the most of their retirement savings.
Penrith
The Penrith train station and Westfield shopping centre are conveniently located in the town. There is a high level of safety here, and the locals are both unobtrusive and kind and helpful.
Too many cookie-cutter complexes have devalued Penrith's reputation and property values. This is the finest spot for retirees to amass wealth. You might begin by raising the area's stature by constructing a respectable home.
Sydney's Best Suburbs For Investing
These are not listed in any particular sequence, but We have included a ranking based on a few metrics at the conclusion of the blog.
However, keep in mind... Even inside the suburbs, there are still some areas that should be ignored or other neighbourhoods which also will outperform.
Coogee
Coogee, a beachside suburb to the south-east of Sydney's central business district, is undergoing gentrification and will benefit from infrastructure upgrades beginning in 2020.
Light rail will run from Circular Quay to Kingsford along a route of 12 kilometres as part of the $2.2 billion South-East Light Rail project.
The town centre on Coogee Bay Road was also upgraded to the tune of $5M in September 2018, in addition to the light rail.
- Distance from CBD: 8 km South East
- Walk Score: 79 – Very Walkable
- Median Household Income: $2099 (weekly)
- Total population: 14,012
Rozelle
Rozelle, located to the west of Sydney's central business district, is a gentrifying neighbourhood.
Darling Street's concentration of cafes and restaurants, as well as the other cultural establishments in the area, make it a must-visit suburb.
- Distance from CBD: 4 km West
- Walk Score: 84 – Very Walkable
- Median Household Income: $2598(weekly)
- Walk Score: 84 – Very Walkable
- Total population: 7919
Maroubra
Southern-Eastern Sydney is home to the coastal suburb of Maroubra, one of the Eastern Suburbs.
Maroubra, under the jurisdiction of Randwick City Council, is the largest suburb in both land mass and resident population in the area.
- Distance from CBD: 10km South East
- Walk Score: 74 – Very Walkable
- Median Household Income: $1428(weekly)
- Total population: 29,594
Cammeray
Cammeray is a northern neighbourhood of Sydney's central business district.
Most people live in detached or semi detached houses with one or two stories. Trees and nature strips line many of the residential roadways.
Consequently, Cammeray now has a refreshingly verdant appearance.
- Distance from CBD: 5km North
- Walk Score: 85 – Very Walkable
- Median Household Income: $2239(weekly)
- Total population: 6783
Bexley
Bexley is a neighbourhood of St. George, which is a region of southern Sydney, located to the south of the Sydney Central Business District (CBD).
There are both residential and commercial/light industrial areas in Bexley, with the main shopping district (often referred to as the "Bexley Shopping Centre") being situated on Forest Road.
- Distance from CBD: 14 km South
- Walk Score: 71 – Very Walkable
- Median Household Income: $1358(weekly)
- Total population: 19,067
Kensington
South of the Sydney central business district, in the City of Randwick, is where you'll find Kensington.
If you're looking for a place to stay near Randwick Racecourse and the, go no further than Kensington.
Australia Golf Club, the National Institute of Dramatic Arts (NIDA), and the University of New South Wales (UNSW) main campus are the most recognisable structures in the neighbourhood.
The construction of a light rail line in the Southeast will also be useful to the residents of Kensington.
- Distance from CBD: 6 km South East
- Walk Score: 81 – Very Walkable
- Median Household Income: $1498(weekly)
- Walk Score: 81 – Very Walkable
- Total population: 12,776
Balmain
Located to the west of Sydney's central business district, Balmain is a posh area known for its cutting-edge dining options.
Darling Street is home to a variety of unique shops, cafes, bakeries, and restaurants, many housed in historic Victorian buildings.
The affluent families, artists, and media professionals who live in the renovated sandstone workers' cottages that line the lush streets and where the vendors at Saturday's Balmain Markets sell organic food, crafts, and fashion are just some of the people who call this area home.
- Distance from CBD: 5km West
- Walk Score: 93 – Walker's Paradise
- Median Household Income: $2456(weekly)
- Total population: 9783
Neutral Bay
One of Sydney's Lower North Shore neighbourhoods, Neutral Bay looks out over the harbour. Located in the North Sydney Council region, which is north of Sydney's central business district. Local neighbourhoods include Cammeray, Milsons Point, and Cremorne.
- Distance from CBD: 1.5km North
- Walk Score: 85 – Very Walkable
- Median Household Income: $2073(weekly)
- Total population: 9384
Dulwich Hill
Dulwich Hill is a neighbourhood in Sydney's Inner West, towards the city's southwestern edge. Dulwich Hill, a well-established neighbourhood with several examples of Federalist Architecture, reaches south to the coast of the Cooks River.
Houses here are larger than in some of the older, neighbouring suburbs like Petersham, and the streets are broader than those in many inner-city neighbourhoods.
- Distance from CBD: 7.5km South-West
- Walk Score: 84 – Very Walkable
- Median Household Income: $1540(weekly)
- Total population: 12,981
Kogarah
Kogarah, a residential neighbourhood in southern Sydney, is located to the south of the Sydney Central Business District and serves as the regional hub for the St. George area.
Station Street, on the other side of the tracks, and Regent Street, both near the Kogarah train station, make up the heart of the city's shopping district.
- Distance from CBD: 14 km South
- Walk Score: 84 – Very Walkable
- Median Household Income: $1238(weekly)
- Total population: 12,763
Marrickville
Southwest of Sydney's central business district, you'll find the gentrified suburb of Marrickville in the city's Inner West. Located on the northern bank of the Cooks River, it is the largest suburb in the inner-west.
It is a mixed-use suburb that includes a variety of residential, commercial, and light industrial zones of varying densities.
Some of the residences in Marrickville date back to the late 19th century and are detached Victorians or Victorian terraces, while others were constructed in the Federation style in the early 20th century.
- Distance from CBD: 7 km South-West
- Walk Score: 80 – Very Walkable
- Median Household Income: $2324(weekly)
- Total population: 24,612
Ashfield
The population density of Ashfield, a neighbourhood in Sydney's Inner West that is located to the south-west of the Sydney Central Business District, is above average for Australia. The area's housing stock consists primarily of post-war low-rise apartments and federation-era detached houses.
Some of these structures date back to the Victorian era and are a glimpse into Ashfield's storied past.
- Distance from CBD: 8 km South-West
- Walk Score: 75 – Very Walkable
- Median Household Income: $1314(weekly)
- Total population: 22,190
Summer Hill
West of the Sydney central business district, Summer Hill is a suburban area bordered by Lewisham, Haberfield, and Ashfield.
Some of the homes in Summer Hill date back to the Federation era, while others were built more recently. The neighbourhood's "village character," as designated by the city council, is a key feature of the area.
More than a hundred buildings on Summer Hill have been designated as historical landmarks, making it a historically significant area.
- Distance from CBD: 7 km West
- Walk Score: 77 – Very Walkable
- Median Household Income: $1570(weekly)
- Total population: 6586
Newtown
Newtown is a multicultural, bohemian district that never sleeps. The independent bookstores and secondhand shops on King Street are popular destinations for shoppers.
The Enmore Theatre features comedy revues and live music, while trendy bars and restaurants serving multicultural cuisine draw locals and University of Sydney students.
Besides the restored Victorian architecture, the area also features street art, such as a mural of Martin Luther King.
- Distance from CBD: 4km South-West
- Walk Score: 95 – Walker's Paradise
- Median Household Income: $1753(weekly)
- Total population: 14,148
Conclusion
Sydney is expensive, but first-time buyers and investors have several options. Which Sydney neighbourhood is right for you depends on your budget, circumstances, and preferences. Many factors affect the living quality and property resale value. For example, good schools, hospitals, and city centre proximity are important when choosing a new home. Also, consider your work commute while moving.
Wherever you live, several convenient local services should be within walking distance. Living in a suburb where everything you need is within shouting distance can reduce stress and improve your financial future. Family-friendly suburbs include these. Sydney is a popular retirement location due to its low cost of living, great quality of life, and promised value appreciation. In addition, Sydney's suburbs offer amazing nightlife for young professionals willing to take public transportation into the CBD.
Sydney's best retirement community in Penrith. These generic developments hurt the town's reputation and property values. Coogee's gentrification will benefit from 2020 infrastructure upgrades. Dulwich Hill is a historic Sydney neighbourhood. Balmain has full of trendy restaurants.
Kogarah is the regional hub of St. George, while Neutral Bay has excellent harbour views. Ashfield, Summer Hill, Newtown, and Marrickville are in inner-west Sydney. Between Lewisham and Haberfield is suburban Ashfield. Summer Hill has almost 100 historic buildings.
Content Summary
- It's easy to see why Sydney is considered by many to be one of Australia's most desirable housing markets.
- The best Sydney neighbourhood for you to live in or purchase a property in will be the one that most suits your requirements, finances, and tastes.
- To help you get started, we've compiled an overview of some of Sydney's most sought-after neighbourhoods.
- Whether you're looking for the greatest area to raise a family in Sydney or just the safest and most liveable suburbs, we've got you covered.
- Four of Sydney's middle-ring suburbs in the south and southwest made PRD Sydney's recent list of the city's most liveable neighbourhoods.
- Some aspects impact the standard of living and the resale value of a property.
- Finding a suburb near a good hospital or medical school might improve your quality of life.
- The following are examples of excellent family-friendly suburbs: Newtown is home to hip eateries, unique thrift shops, and stylish locals.
- The University of Sydney and the subway system are both within walking distance.
- Living in Ultimo is easy because of its proximity to good schools and beautiful beaches.
- Some Sydney neighbourhoods, especially those in the city's inner rings, provide excellent nightlife options for young professionals willing to commute to the central business district.
- When deciding where to settle in retirement, retirees prioritise three factors: cost of living, quality of life, and potential for appreciation.
- The Penrith train station and Westfield shopping centre are conveniently located in the town.
- Sydney's Best Suburbs For Investing These are not listed in any particular sequence, but We have included a ranking based on a few metrics after the blog.
- However, keep in mind... Even inside the suburbs, there are still some areas that should be ignored or other neighbourhoods which also will outperform.
- Coogee, a beachside suburb southeast of Sydney's central business district, is undergoing gentrification and will benefit from infrastructure upgrades beginning in 2020.
- South of the Sydney central business district, in the City of Randwick, is where you'll find Kensington.
- The construction of a light rail line in the Southeast will also be useful to the residents of Kensington.
- Located to the west of Sydney's central business district, Balmain is a posh area known for its cutting-edge dining options.
- Dulwich Hill is a neighbourhood in Sydney's Inner West, towards the city's southwestern edge.
- Kogarah, a residential neighbourhood in southern Sydney, is located south of the Sydney Central Business District and serves as the regional hub for the St. George area.
- Southwest of Sydney's central business district, you'll find the gentrified suburb of Marrickville in the city's Inner West.
- Located on the northern bank of the Cooks River, it is the largest suburb in the inner-west.
- The population density of Ashfield, a neighbourhood in Sydney's Inner West located southwest of the Sydney Central Business District, is above average for Australia.
- West of the Sydney central business district, Summer Hill is a suburban area bordered by Lewisham, Haberfield, and Ashfield.
- Some of the homes in Summer Hill date back to the Federation era, while others were built more recently.
- More than a hundred buildings on Summer Hill have been designated as historical landmarks, making it a historically significant area.
FAQs About Sydney
Sydney is made up of 658 suburbs, spread across 33 local government areas. Residents of the city are known as "Sydneysiders". As of June 2020, Sydney's estimated metropolitan population was 5,367,206, meaning the city is home to approximately 66% of the state's population. The city has had several nicknames throughout its history, such as the 'Emerald City' and the 'Harbour City'.
Suburbs usually regarded as being in the Inner West region include Abbotsford, Ashbury, Ashfield, Balmain, Burwood, Concord, Dulwich Hill, Five Dock, Homebush, Hurlstone Park, Leichhardt, Lilyfield, Newtown, Marrickville, Rozelle, Strathfield and Summer Hill.
Look at Bexley, Campsie and their immediate surroundings as you’re getting pretty good access to the city vs. slightly more reasonable property prices. The Turrella, Arncliffe, Banksia areas may also be an option depending on how cashed up you are, as well as Carlton. These aren’t “flashy” Sydney suburbs, but they’re all functional, reasonably safe and convenient with easy commutes to the Sydney CBD.
Further from the city, Holsworthy, Rouse Hill, and Hornsby / Asquith all offer decent connectivity and a good mix of home types for relatively decent prices without being dodgy, especially if you’re okay with a townhouse / duplex. Parramatta and some of its satellite suburbs are also becoming more and more liveable and diverse, with express trains to the city making for a viable commute. Harris Park, Westmead and Wentworthville are decent choices in this regard.
Riverstone-Marsden Park. With 31,864 residents, the Riverstone – Marsden Park area in Sydney's Blacktown region reported an additional 5275 new residents to rank as the second-largest growth area in NSW with the state #1 fastest growth rate (19.8%).
Across the capital cities, Melbourne's Brighton was the most popular suburb for house seekers, with 275,746 buyers looking at homes in the beachside suburb this year. Kellyville topped the list for Sydney (248,626 buyers), while government grants helped boost demand in Perth's Baldivis (159,830 buyers).