Top 10 Suburbs to Invest in Across SYDNEY: Reviewed and Ranked in 2024

Identifying the Top Suburbs to Invest in across Sydney can be an arduous task, given the city’s vast and diverse property landscape. Choosing the wrong suburb could lead to potential financial losses, poor rental returns, and a challenging resale market.

This article is based on thorough research and analysis of critical factors, to provide you with reliable and insightful recommendations. For investors in 2024, suburbs like Marrickville score highly on this list with its strong market growth, ongoing gentrification, and proximity to the city, offering excellent long-term potential. Continue to read below, to see my complete list of recommendations.

10. Sutherland – Total Score: 73/100

Sutherland Park, image by Sardaka

Sutherland offers a balanced mix of growth potential and lifestyle amenities, though it faces challenges with its higher median house prices.

Scoring Criteria:

  • Market Growth: 7/10
  • Rental Yield: 6/10
  • Employment Opportunities: 8/10
  • Population Growth: 7/10
  • Quality of Schools: 8/10
  • Community and Lifestyle: 9/10
  • Median House Price: 5/10
  • Public Transport and Infrastructure: 8/10
  • Local Amenities: 9/10
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: 6/10

Sutherland stands out for its employment opportunities and lifestyle amenities. The suburb is home to several large employers and is within commuting distance to the CBD, offering excellent job prospects for young professionals. The local schools are highly regarded, with Sutherland Public School and St. Patrick’s College ranking well in recent evaluations. The community vibe is strong, with plenty of parks, cafes, and recreational facilities enhancing the living experience. Transport links are robust, with regular train services and well-maintained roads ensuring easy access to other parts of Sydney.

However, Sutherland’s median house price is on the higher side, which may deter some investors. The rental yield, while reasonable, is not the highest in Sydney, and the rental vacancy rate has seen slight increases, indicating potential challenges in finding tenants quickly. Additionally, while the area is growing, the pace is moderate compared to some other suburbs.

Median prices for Sutherland, NSW (2232), as of July 2024:

  • Houses – $1,580,000
  • Units – $715,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/nsw/sutherland-2232/

Despite these drawbacks, Sutherland’s blend of lifestyle amenities, employment opportunities, and community feel make it a solid investment option for 2024.

Interested in Sutherland?

9. Ryde – Total Score: 77/100

Ryde Memorial Park, image by Sardaka

Ryde presents a blend of strong infrastructure and community amenities, albeit with some concerns about rental yields.

Scoring Criteria:

  • Market Growth: 8/10
  • Rental Yield: 5/10
  • Employment Opportunities: 9/10
  • Population Growth: 8/10
  • Quality of Schools: 9/10
  • Community and Lifestyle: 8/10
  • Median House Price: 6/10
  • Public Transport and Infrastructure: 9/10
  • Local Amenities: 8/10
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: 7/10

Ryde offers excellent public transport and infrastructure, with a significant focus on road and rail connectivity making commuting seamless. The suburb also boasts top-notch schools like Ryde Secondary College and Holy Cross College, attracting families and contributing to steady population growth. Local amenities, including the Top Ryde City Shopping Centre, parks, and recreational facilities, further enhance its appeal. Employment opportunities are robust, with many major businesses and tech firms located nearby.

On the downside, Ryde’s rental yields are moderate, and the median house price is relatively high, which might limit affordability for some investors. The rental vacancy rate is also slightly higher than ideal, indicating a competitive rental market. These factors require careful consideration for those looking for immediate rental returns.

Median prices for Ryde, NSW (2112), as of July 2024:

  • Houses – $2,402,000
  • Units – $731,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/nsw/ryde-2112/

Overall, Ryde’s strong infrastructure, quality schools, and employment opportunities make it a promising suburb for long-term investment, despite some concerns about immediate rental returns.

Interested in Ryde?

8. Hornsby – Total Score: 78/100

House in Hornsby, image by Sardaka

Hornsby excels in market growth and quality of schools, though its rental vacancy rate is a point of concern.

Scoring Criteria:

  • Market Growth: 9/10
  • Rental Yield: 7/10
  • Employment Opportunities: 8/10
  • Population Growth: 8/10
  • Quality of Schools: 10/10
  • Community and Lifestyle: 7/10
  • Median House Price: 6/10
  • Public Transport and Infrastructure: 8/10
  • Local Amenities: 9/10
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: 6/10

Hornsby is known for its strong market growth, supported by significant development projects and increasing property values. The quality of schools in the area is exceptional, with institutions like Hornsby Girls High School and Barker College attracting families seeking educational excellence. The suburb also benefits from substantial employment opportunities, particularly in retail and education sectors. Hornsby’s public transport system is highly efficient, with frequent train services to the CBD and other parts of Sydney.

However, Hornsby faces challenges with a relatively high median house price, making entry into the market expensive. The rental vacancy rate has been fluctuating, which may indicate some difficulty in securing tenants promptly. Additionally, while the community and lifestyle offerings are good, they might not be as vibrant as some other suburbs.

Median prices for Hornsby, NSW (2077), as of July 2024:

  • Houses – $1,780,000
  • Units – $707,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/nsw/hornsby-2077/

Despite these challenges, Hornsby’s strengths in market growth, education, and transport make it a desirable location for investment in 2024.

Interested in Hornsby?

7. Parramatta – Total Score: 80/100

Parramatta Skyline, image by Kgbo

Parramatta shines with employment opportunities and infrastructure but is marred by a high median house price and moderate rental yield.

Scoring Criteria:

  • Market Growth: 8/10
  • Rental Yield: 6/10
  • Employment Opportunities: 10/10
  • Population Growth: 9/10
  • Quality of Schools: 7/10
  • Community and Lifestyle: 8/10
  • Median House Price: 6/10
  • Public Transport and Infrastructure: 10/10
  • Local Amenities: 9/10
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: 7/10

Parramatta is a burgeoning hub with exceptional employment opportunities due to its status as Sydney’s second CBD. The area has seen remarkable infrastructure developments, including the new light rail and proposed metro connections, making it a transportation powerhouse. Population growth is robust, driven by the influx of businesses and residents. Local amenities are plentiful, from Westfield Parramatta to numerous dining and entertainment options.

Nevertheless, Parramatta’s median house price is high, which may be a barrier for some investors. The rental yield is moderate, which might not provide the most attractive immediate returns. Additionally, the rental vacancy rate has seen some increases, suggesting competition among landlords.

Median prices for Parramatta, NSW (2150), as of July 2024:

  • Houses – $1,500,000
  • Units – $630,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/nsw/parramatta-2150/

Despite these issues, Parramatta’s employment prospects, infrastructure, and amenities make it a compelling investment choice for 2024.

Interested in Parramatta?

6. Blacktown – Total Score: 81/100

Blacktown Library, image by Sardaka

Blacktown offers excellent market growth and affordability, though it has some drawbacks in terms of lifestyle and amenities.

Scoring Criteria:

  • Market Growth: 9/10
  • Rental Yield: 9/10
  • Employment Opportunities: 8/10
  • Population Growth: 9/10
  • Quality of Schools: 7/10
  • Community and Lifestyle: 7/10
  • Median House Price: 9/10
  • Public Transport and Infrastructure: 8/10
  • Local Amenities: 8/10
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: 8/10

Blacktown is a standout for market growth and affordability, with property values steadily increasing and median house prices remaining accessible. The suburb’s rental yield is attractive, offering solid returns for investors. Employment opportunities are diverse, with a range of industries providing jobs in the area. Population growth is consistent, supported by ongoing developments and infrastructure projects.

On the downside, Blacktown’s lifestyle and community amenities might not be as appealing as those in more central suburbs. The public transport and infrastructure, while functional, do not match the efficiency of inner-city areas. The rental vacancy rate, although moderate, indicates a competitive rental market.

Median prices for Blacktown, NSW (2148), as of July 2024:

  • Houses – $985,000
  • Units – $523,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/nsw/blacktown-2148/

Overall, Blacktown’s market growth, affordability, and rental yield make it a promising investment for those looking for good value in 2024.

Interested in Blacktown?

5. Liverpool – Total Score: 82/100

Liverpool Mall, image by Chris Sherlock

Liverpool excels in market growth and employment opportunities but has some concerns with median house price and lifestyle factors.

Scoring Criteria:

  • Market Growth: 9/10
  • Rental Yield: 8/10
  • Employment Opportunities: 9/10
  • Population Growth: 10/10
  • Quality of Schools: 7/10
  • Community and Lifestyle: 7/10
  • Median House Price: 7/10
  • Public Transport and Infrastructure: 9/10
  • Local Amenities: 9/10
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: 7/10

Liverpool is a prime area for market growth, driven by extensive development projects and rising property values. The suburb offers significant employment opportunities, particularly with the ongoing development of the Western Sydney Airport. Public transport and infrastructure are robust, with excellent connectivity to the CBD and other parts of Sydney. Local amenities, including Westfield Liverpool and numerous parks, add to the suburb’s appeal.

However, Liverpool’s median house price is relatively high, which may deter some investors. The rental yield is reasonable but not the highest, and the rental vacancy rate suggests some challenges in finding tenants promptly. Lifestyle and community factors, while good, might not be as vibrant as in some other suburbs.

Median prices for Liverpool, NSW (2170), as of July 2024:

  • Houses – $985,000
  • Units – $475,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/nsw/liverpool-2170/

Despite these drawbacks, Liverpool’s market growth, employment opportunities, and infrastructure make it a strong contender for investment in 2024.

Interested in Liverpool?

4. Penrith – Total Score: 83/100

Apartment Complex in Penrith, image by Brett Boardman

Penrith offers robust market growth and rental yields but has some limitations in terms of lifestyle and local amenities.

Scoring Criteria:

  • Market Growth: 9/10
  • Rental Yield: 9/10
  • Employment Opportunities: 8/10
  • Population Growth: 9/10
  • Quality of Schools: 8/10
  • Community and Lifestyle: 8/10
  • Median House Price: 8/10
  • Public Transport and Infrastructure: 9/10
  • Local Amenities: 9/10
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: 6/10

Penrith stands out for its strong market growth and impressive rental yields. The suburb has been experiencing significant development, with property values rising steadily. Rental yields are among the highest in Sydney, providing excellent returns for investors. Employment opportunities are diverse, with major employers like Nepean Hospital and the nearby University of Western Sydney. Population growth is consistent, driven by affordable housing and ongoing development projects.

Despite these positive aspects, Penrith’s lifestyle and local amenities are not as vibrant as those in more central suburbs. While it has good public transport and infrastructure, the area is still developing, which may be a consideration for some investors. The rental vacancy rate is moderate, indicating some competition among landlords.

Median prices for Penrith, NSW (2750), as of July 2024:

  • Houses – $900,000
  • Units – $540,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/nsw/penrith-2750/

Overall, Penrith’s strong market growth, rental yields, and employment opportunities make it a compelling investment option for 2024, despite some limitations in lifestyle and amenities.

Interested in Penrith?

3. Miranda – Total Score: 85/100

Westfield Miranda office tower, image by J Bar

Miranda excels in quality of schools and community lifestyle but faces challenges with its median house price and rental vacancy rate.

Scoring Criteria:

  • Market Growth: 8/10
  • Rental Yield: 8/10
  • Employment Opportunities: 8/10
  • Population Growth: 10/10
  • Quality of Schools: 9/10
  • Community and Lifestyle: 10/10
  • Median House Price: 6/10
  • Public Transport and Infrastructure: 9/10
  • Local Amenities: 10/10
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: 7/10

Miranda offers an exceptional quality of life with top-notch schools and a vibrant community. The suburb is home to some of Sydney’s best schools, such as Miranda Public School and Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic School, which are major draw cards for families. The community lifestyle is lively, with plenty of cafes, parks, and recreational facilities enhancing the living experience. Public transport and infrastructure are excellent, with frequent train services and well-maintained roads providing easy access to the CBD and other areas.

However, Miranda’s median house price is relatively high, which may be a barrier for some investors. The rental yield is moderate, and the rental vacancy rate has seen slight increases, indicating potential challenges in finding tenants quickly. Despite these challenges, the suburb’s overall appeal and strong market growth make it an attractive investment option.

Median prices for Miranda, NSW (2228), as of July 2024:

  • Houses – $1,730,000
  • Units – $770,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/nsw/miranda-2228/

Overall, Miranda’s blend of quality schools, community lifestyle, and strong infrastructure make it a top choice for investment in 2024, despite the higher median house price and rental vacancy rate.

Interested in Miranda?

2. Alexandria – Total Score: 86/100

Terraces in Alexandria, image by Maksym Kozlenko

Alexandria offers exceptional employment opportunities and public transport but faces high median house prices and rental vacancy concerns.

Scoring Criteria:

  • Market Growth: 9/10
  • Rental Yield: 8/10
  • Employment Opportunities: 10/10
  • Population Growth: 9/10
  • Quality of Schools: 9/10
  • Community and Lifestyle: 9/10
  • Median House Price: 6/10
  • Public Transport and Infrastructure: 10/10
  • Local Amenities: 10/10
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: 6/10

Alexandria is a standout for its employment opportunities and excellent public transport infrastructure. The suburb is within close proximity to the CBD, making it an attractive location for professionals. Employment opportunities are abundant, with many businesses and tech firms located nearby. Public transport options are top-notch, with frequent bus and train services providing easy access to various parts of Sydney. The community lifestyle is vibrant, with plenty of cafes, parks, and recreational facilities enhancing the living experience.

On the downside, Alexandria’s median house price is quite high, which may be a barrier for some investors. The rental yield is moderate, and the rental vacancy rate has seen slight increases, indicating potential challenges in finding tenants quickly. Despite these challenges, the suburb’s overall appeal and strong market growth make it an attractive investment option.

Median prices for Alexandria, NSW (2015), as of July 2024:

  • Houses – $2,150,000
  • Units – $830,500

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/nsw/alexandria-2015/

Overall, Alexandria’s blend of employment opportunities, public transport, and community lifestyle make it a top choice for investment in 2024, despite the higher median house price and rental vacancy rate.

Interested in Alexandria?

1. Marrickville – Total Score: 91/100

Pathway in Marrichville, image by Maksym Kozlenko

Marrickville excels in almost every criterion, making it the top suburb to invest in across Sydney for 2024.

Scoring Criteria:

  • Market Growth: 10/10
  • Rental Yield: 9/10
  • Employment Opportunities: 9/10
  • Population Growth: 9/10
  • Quality of Schools: 9/10
  • Community and Lifestyle: 10/10
  • Median House Price: 8/10
  • Public Transport and Infrastructure: 9/10
  • Local Amenities: 10/10
  • Rental Vacancy Rate: 8/10

Marrickville offers an unbeatable combination of market growth, rental yields, and lifestyle amenities. The suburb has seen significant market growth, with property values increasing steadily. Rental yields are attractive, providing solid returns for investors. Employment opportunities are diverse, with many businesses and creative industries located nearby. Population growth is robust, driven by the suburb’s appeal to young professionals and families.

The quality of schools in Marrickville is excellent, with institutions like Marrickville High School and St. Brigid’s Catholic Primary School attracting families. The community lifestyle is vibrant, with a rich cultural scene, numerous cafes, restaurants, and recreational facilities. Public transport and infrastructure are top-notch, with frequent train and bus services providing easy access to the CBD and other parts of Sydney. Local amenities are plentiful, adding to the suburb’s overall appeal.

Median prices for Marrichville, NSW (2204), as of July 2024:

  • Houses – $2,017,500
  • Units – $885,000

House and unit data provided by, https://www.realestate.com.au/nsw/marrickville-2204/

Despite its higher median house price, Marrickville’s strong market growth, rental yields, and exceptional lifestyle amenities make it the best investment option for 2024. The suburb’s overall appeal and strong infrastructure make it a top choice for young professional couples, individuals and families looking to invest in Sydney.

Interested in Marrickville?

How I Scored Each Suburb

Market Growth

Market growth measures the increase in property values over time, indicating the potential for capital appreciation. Market growth is a crucial metric because it signifies the suburb’s ability to deliver long-term returns on investment.

  • A suburb with sluggish market growth, scoring 1, – would have stagnating property prices and minimal demand. For example, a suburb like Campbelltown, which has seen only marginal increases in property values, would score low in this category.
  • In contrast, a suburb scoring 10 – would demonstrate robust and sustained increases in property values, driven by high demand and strategic developments. For instance, suburbs like Leichhardt, which have experienced significant property value surges due to gentrification and development projects, exemplify high market growth.

Rental Yield

Rental yield evaluates the return on investment from rental income relative to the property’s purchase price. Rental yield is vital as it directly impacts an investor’s cash flow and financial sustainability.

  • A suburb scoring 1 – would have low rental returns compared to the purchase price. An example is Lane Cove, where high property prices result in lower rental yields.
  • Conversely, a suburb scoring 10 – would offer high rental yields, ensuring excellent returns on investment. Suburbs like Fairfield, with relatively low property prices but high rental demand, represent areas with exceptional rental yields.

Employment Opportunities

Employment opportunities assess the availability of jobs within or near the suburb, crucial for attracting residents. Strong employment opportunities are essential for sustaining demand and ensuring tenant stability.

  • A suburb scoring 1 – would lack significant employment hubs and opportunities, like Bargo, which is predominantly residential with few local job opportunities.
  • A suburb scoring 10 – would be a major employment hub or have easy access to job-rich areas. An example is Macquarie Park, home to many businesses and within close proximity to Sydney’s major employment centres.

Population Growth

Population growth indicates the rate at which a suburb’s population is increasing, signifying demand and future potential. Population growth is a critical indicator of future demand for housing and services.

  • A suburb scoring 1 – would experience minimal or negative population growth. For example, areas like Warrawong have seen very little population increase, reflecting lower demand.
  • A suburb scoring 10 – would have high population growth, driven by attractive living conditions and amenities. For instance, Oran Park, a rapidly developing area with a booming population, highlights high population growth.

Quality of Schools

Quality of schools measures the performance and reputation of local educational institutions. High-quality schools attract families, boosting demand and property values.

  • A suburb scoring 1 – would lack reputable schools, negatively impacting its attractiveness to families. For instance, suburbs like Villawood, with limited educational facilities, score low in this category.
  • A suburb scoring 10 – would have top-rated schools known for their excellence. An example is North Sydney, renowned for its prestigious schools such as North Sydney Boys High School and Monte Sant’ Angelo Mercy College.

Community and Lifestyle

Community and lifestyle evaluate the overall living experience, including social cohesion, recreational facilities, and cultural vibrancy. Community and lifestyle are important as they contribute to a suburb’s desirability and liveability.

  • A suburb scoring 1 would lack recreational facilities and a vibrant community atmosphere, such as Chester Hill, which has fewer amenities and lifestyle options.
  • A suburb scoring 10 would offer a vibrant, cohesive community with abundant recreational facilities. Suburbs like Paddington, known for their lively culture, parks, and community events, score high in this category.

Median House Price

Median house price assesses the affordability and investment potential of the suburb. Median house price is crucial as it affects the accessibility for investors and potential buyers.

  • A suburb scoring 1 – would have prohibitively high prices, making it less attractive for average investors. For example, Bellevue Hill, with extremely high property prices, scores low in affordability.
  • Conversely, a suburb scoring 10 – would offer affordable housing with good investment potential. Suburbs like Penrith, with reasonable median house prices and strong growth prospects, represent affordable investment opportunities.

Public Transport and Infrastructure

Public transport and infrastructure measure the availability and quality of transport links and essential services. Effective public transport and infrastructure are key for accessibility and convenience.

  • A suburb scoring 1 – would have poor transport links and infrastructure. For example, suburbs like Berowra, with limited public transport options, score low in this area.
  • A suburb scoring 10 – would have excellent public transport and infrastructure, ensuring easy connectivity. Suburbs like Chatswood, with comprehensive transport networks and robust infrastructure, exemplify high scores in this category.

Local Amenities

Local amenities evaluate the availability and quality of shops, restaurants, parks, and other services. Local amenities enhance the liveability and attractiveness of a suburb.

  • A suburb scoring 1 – would lack essential amenities, such as Austral, which has fewer shopping and recreational facilities.
  • A suburb scoring 10 – would be rich in amenities, offering residents a wide range of services and recreational options. An example is Newtown, with its diverse array of shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.

Rental Vacancy Rate

Rental vacancy rate measures the percentage of available rental properties that are vacant, indicating demand. A low rental vacancy rate signifies high demand and stability for investors.

  • A suburb scoring 1 – would have a high vacancy rate, suggesting oversupply and low demand. For instance, suburbs like Rouse Hill have experienced higher vacancy rates due to rapid development.
  • A suburb scoring 10 – would have a low vacancy rate, indicating strong rental demand. Suburbs like Marrickville, with consistently low vacancy rates, reflect high demand and tenant stability.

My In-Depth Approach: Combining Data with Local Experiences

In compiling these suburb recommendations, I relied on a blend of data analysis and firsthand local insights. The data was sourced from reputable real estate databases such as CoreLogic, Realestate.com.au and Domain.com.au, which provided detailed information on market growth, rental yields, and median house prices. I referred to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS’s), including other government websites, publications and local council reports to assess infrastructure development and employment opportunities. For instance, the NSW Department of Planning provided invaluable insights into population growth projections and upcoming infrastructure projects across Sydney.

To build my understanding of the community and lifestyle in each of the suburbs reviewed, I visited numerous local cafes, restaurants, and social settings. In Sutherland, I enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere at The Nuns’ Pool, a popular spot among locals for brunch. In Ryde, I found the Top Ryde City Shopping Centre to be a bustling hub of activity, offering a variety of dining and entertainment options. My visit to Marrickville included a stop at Cornersmith, a cafe renowned for its commitment to sustainability and community engagement.

I engaged with Local Real Estate Agents and Property Managers, to gain insights into the rental market and vacancy rates, like Penrith highlighted the suburb’s appeal to young families due to its affordable housing and strong community spirit. One agent mentioned that Penrith’s family-friendly amenities, such as the Nepean River’s parklands and the Penrith Panthers entertainment complex, make it an attractive choice for families. And in other suburbs such as Alexandria, emphasised the suburb’s high demand among professionals working in the CBD, due to it proximity and, noting the appeal of trendy cafes like Mecca Alexandria and the convenient proximity to major business districts and transport hubs like Green Square Station.

Offering this detail, along with other key attributes, ensures this list, is thorough and extensive, for all people including young professional couples, families looking to invest in Sydney’s property market in 2024.

Conclusion

In 2024, Sydney offers a diverse array of promising Suburbs for Investment, each presenting unique strengths and opportunities tailored to different investor needs. Here’s a summary of the Top 10 Suburbs in Sydney to consider:

  1. Marrickville – Total Score: 91/100
  2. Alexandria – Total Score: 86/100
  3. Miranda – Total Score: 85/100
  4. Penrith – Total Score: 83/100
  5. Liverpool – Total Score: 82/100
  6. Blacktown – Total Score: 81/100
  7. Parramatta – Total Score: 80/100
  8. Hornsby – Total Score: 78/100
  9. Ryde – Total Score: 77/100
  10. Sutherland – Total Score: 73/100

Whether you’re seeking areas with high market growth, exceptional rental yields, strong employment opportunities, or vibrant community lifestyles, Sydney’s property market has something for you. The suburbs listed above have been carefully evaluated based on key factors, making them top picks for young professional couples looking to invest. Whether it’s strong market growth in Marrickville, excellent employment prospects in Alexandria, or a vibrant community life in Miranda, there’s a suburb to match every investment strategy.

If you need help finding the perfect property, consider using a professional residential buyer’s agent. They can provide expert advice, local knowledge, and support throughout the buying process, ensuring you make the best investment decision for your needs.


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